NEELUM VALLEY (Kashmir English): In Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), 57 tourists travelling from Kail to Sharda were stranded at Sheikh Bela due to a Neelum Valley glacier blocking the road but were safely rescued by local police, the Pakistan Army, and emergency services, with officials advising against unnecessary travel amid harsh weather conditions.
A group of 57 tourists travelling from Kail to Sharda found themselves stranded this evening at Sheikh Bela due to a glacier blocking the road. One of their vehicles was also stuck but was safely recovered and parked at Sheikh Bela. The entire group of visitors together with a residential population was successfully returned to Kail without reporting any injuries amongst them.
Various local and military organizations collaborated to conduct the rescue operation through the local Kail and Sharda police, as well as Rescue 1122 Shard, Tehsil Press Club Sharda, and the Pakistan Army. The immediate reaction of these teams resulted in carrying out safe evacuations for all persons involved.
The authorities released another advisory which requests locals and visitors to minimize their movements during nighttime and all unnecessary trips. Travel to Neelum Valley becomes extremely hazardous because severe weather conditions bring heavy snow accumulation. Officials have advised people to remain where they are and only embark on journeys once the weather clears.
Your family’s parents, spouses, children, siblings, and loved ones are waiting for your safe return. Do not put yourself or others in danger by travelling in hazardous conditions,” the advisory emphasised.
The blocked Neelum Valley road will be cleared tomorrow in daylight, as current weather conditions make it impossible to undertake clearance operations at night. Officials have urged the public to avoid any kind of travel until the road is declared safe.
The weather conditions in all of AJK have been harsh lately. Recently heavy snowfall and avalanches had forced the closure of Reshian-Leepa Road for all traffic, with authorities warning travellers to avoid unnecessary movement until weather conditions improve.
