A devastating avalanche struck the popular tourist destination of Naran in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Initial reports indicate that over 20 hotels and residential buildings were buried under the weight of collapsing glaciers. However, this incident raised concerns about substantial financial losses to the local economy.
A devastating avalanche triggered by the collapse of two glaciers buried multiple houses and hotels in the renowned tourist destination of Naran, located in the Mansehra District of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), officials from the Kaghan Development Authority (KDA) reported on Thursday.
Naran, situated in the upper Kaghan Valley, draws significant domestic and international tourism, particularly during the summer months. However, the region experiences severe winter conditions leading to road closures due to heavy snowfall, rendering it nearly deserted during the colder months.
The recent avalanche, a recurring hazard in the region, resulted in the closure of Naran’s Jheel Road, exacerbating access issues to the town. The exact extent of the damage remains challenging to ascertain, with government agencies facing obstacles in gathering comprehensive data on the losses.
Responding to the crisis, the KDA convened an emergency meeting to formulate a strategy for damage assessment. A specialized team has mobilized to assess the aftermath and propose necessary measures for recovery. Moreover, Muhammad Shabir Khan, Director General of KDA, emphasized the urgency of the situation and pledged support to the affected community.
Rescue Operations
KDA Director General Muhammad Shabir Khan also highlighted the importance of heeding guidance from local elders regarding construction practices in vulnerable areas prone to glacier-related hazards. As efforts to restore access to Naran’s affected areas intensify, the authorities remain committed to assisting residents and mitigating future risks posed by natural disasters.
Rescue teams are currently on the ground, assessing the situation and working to locate any possible survivors. Moreover, the main focus remains on ensuring public safety and mitigating further damage.
The Government of Pakistan has expressed its condolences to those affected by the disaster and pledged its support in the relief and rehabilitation efforts. The coming days will be crucial in determining the full scale of the avalanche’s impact on Naran and its vibrant tourism sector.
