NEELUM (Kashmir English): The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Neelum on Wednesday issued a travel advisory for tourists, urging them to take precautionary measures while visiting the valley amid cold weather, snowfall, and increased tourist activity.
The authority advised visitors travelling to Ratti Gali, Baboon, Patlian, Chitta Katha and other tourist destinations and difficult mountain tracks to exercise special caution.
The tourists have been instructed to carry warm clothes, hiking shoes, essential medicines and a small oxygen cylinder while visiting mountainous areas. “Return to your hotel or night stay destination before sunset and avoid traveling in the dark,” it said.
The advisory further stated that visitors heading to snowy areas should carry snow chains for their vehicles and use them when necessary.
The DDMA also advised tourists against taking young children, women and elderly people to difficult areas and hazardous tracks. Visitors were urged to hire local tour guides familiar with the terrain and weather conditions.
Local residents, guesthouse owners and drivers have also been requested not to take tourists to dangerous locations and to prioritise their safety in view of prevailing weather and ground conditions.
“In case of an emergency, tourists have been directed to contact rescue services, the district administration or local police for immediate assistance,” it stated.
The DDMA urged visitors to enjoy Neelum Valley’s natural beauty while prioritising the safety of their lives and property and strictly following the precautionary measures.
