Oct 26 , 2015
News
Over a thousand tourists trapped in Kaghan valley
INPBALAKOT: Thousands of tourists, traders and local people have become trapped in Kaghan valley due to the closure of Naran-Balakot road after heavy snowfall and landslides at various locations on Saturday and Sunday. Foreign and local tourists in thousands had gone to the scenic Naran valley to spend the holidays but they were trapped after snowfall of several feet and landslides at a number of locations on a road leading to Balakot. Reports said over 1,000 vehicles were trapped at various places. The stranded people face shortage of food, intense cold weather and lack of accommodation. National Highway Authorities (NHA) though reacted promptly and sent heavy machinery to clear the road but it was a difficult task as the landslides occurred at dozen of places making it difficult for the NHA to clear the road and rescue the stranded people. Mansehra deputy commissioner told media that he has requested the provincial government to provide a helicopter to airlift the stranded tourists. Balakot assistant commissioner said the district administration was monitoring the situation and all resources and efforts were being utilised to rescue and facilitate the stranded people. Reports said the prime minister has asked the federal interior secretary to contact the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister and offer any assistance that was needed.
Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk