The district disaster management authorities (DDMAs) of Diamer and Ghizer have directed all the departments concerned to remain on high alert in the region and issued an advisory for the tourists in anticipation of heavy rain and snowfall.
According to notifications issued by the DDMAs, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecasted heavy rain and snowfall to start in various parts of GB from Thursday and last until March 4. During this rainy period, extreme weather conditions are expected.
According to PMD, heavy to extremely heavy widespread rain with windstorms/thunderstorms and snowfall is expected in Diamir, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghanche, and Shigar. “Heavy Rainfall may generate flash floods/Heavy snowfall may disrupt daily life in vulnerable areas,” the PMD said.
The DDMAs said that these severe conditions in the region, especially in the District Diamer, often lead to numerous rock falls and mudslides and cause the closure of roads.
The DDMAs directed all district disaster management authorities and Rescue 1122 to be vigilant for emergencies and be on standby with heavy machinery.
The notifications said the buildings and roads departments and National Highway Authority (NHA) should place and standby their machinery for far-flung valley road blockages. At the same time, the water & power divisions shall alert their field staff and take necessary measures to ensure the power supply during this period.
The DHOs are directed to update the status of available medicines at BHU levels, along with their field staff, for any emergency situation. CSOs are directed to ensure the supply of wheat stock in far-flung valleys and update the stock position.
The DDMAs also directed police and assistant commissioners to establish control rooms and share the updated reports with the deputy commissioners or DDMA.
“All concerned heads of departments are directed to remain vigilant during this forecasted period and, remain in your duty stations, and compliance the above directives in true letter & spirit. Furthermore, local travellers and tourists are hereby advised to avoid unnecessary movements during this spell,” the notification added.
Meanwhile, the Diamer Police and deputy commissioners of Diamer and Ghizer have established control rooms in this regard. The DCs have asked the general public, especially people living in vulnerable areas, to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel.
