ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority has issued a landslide warning for mountainous areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The alert will remain in effect from August 19 to 22.
The warning was issued through the National Emergency Operations Centre. The NDMA identified several mountainous districts as vulnerable during the period.
These areas include Malakand, Lower Dir, Upper Dir, Shangla and Swat. Battagram, Allai, Upper Chitral and Lower Chitral are also included.
Upper Kohistan, Lower Kohistan, Kolai Palas, Mansehra and Galiyat are also at risk. Authorities have been advised to remain prepared for possible disruptions.
The NDMA warned that landslides could affect traffic on mountain roads. Falling rocks and debris flows could also create dangerous conditions.
Some roads could face temporary disruptions. Other routes could remain blocked for longer periods, depending on the severity of landslides.
Several important routes have been identified as particularly vulnerable. These include N-45 around Batkhela, Chakdara and Dir. Matkani Road and several routes in the Dir valleys are also at risk. The N-45, S-4A and S-16 routes have been included in the warning.
Routes connecting Chakdara, Mingora, Madyan, Bahrain and Kalam could also be affected. The Allai, Pokal and Gangwal roads are considered sensitive as well.
In Chitral, the N-140 and Chitral-Booni-Mastuj corridor face potential risks. The N-45 Drosh-Lowari-Chitral route is also vulnerable.
The Chitral-Garam Chashma road has been included in the warning. Officials have been asked to monitor these routes closely. Several sections of the Karakoram Highway are also considered vulnerable. These include areas around Dasu, Komila, Seo, Patan, Dubair and Jijal.
Roads connecting Palas and Kolai could also face disruptions. The NDMA warned that damage could affect important links to remote communities.
The N-15 route connecting Balakot, Kaghan and Naran is another area of concern. Roads linking Abbottabad, Galiyat and Thandiani could also be affected.
According to the NDMA, landslides can damage roads, bridges and retaining walls. They can also disrupt traffic and cut off access to remote areas. Sudden debris flows may pose risks to drivers, passengers and nearby communities. People living close to mountain slopes could face increased danger.
The NEOC has directed district administrations to monitor vulnerable slopes continuously. Emergency response teams have also been asked to remain ready.
Authorities must ensure machinery and rescue equipment are available in advance. Alternative arrangements should also be prepared for possible road blockages.
The NDMA has advised people to avoid unnecessary travel through landslide-prone areas. Travellers should check weather and road conditions before leaving.
People should avoid roads closed by authorities and maintain a safe distance from affected areas. They should also follow instructions from local administrations and rescue agencies.
In other news read more about Urban Flooding Worsened by Blocked Drains and Poor Planning in Punjab
Citizens can use the official Pak NDMA Disaster Alert app for timely updates. The app provides information about weather conditions and potential natural disasters.
