Pakistan’s northern tourism sector is facing a serious downturn as relentless monsoon rains, landslides, and flash floods disrupt travel plans and endanger lives. This season, rainfall has been unusually heavy, with Chakwal recording 423 mm by mid-July — twice its average.
The downpours have blocked key routes in Murree, Soon Valley, Kalabagh, and other northern areas, stranding dozens of tourists while hampering rescue efforts. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, at least 13 tourists drowned near the Swat river after water levels suddenly rose. Gilgit-Baltistan’s Diamer district has seen three deaths and 15 people missing due to landslides, with parts of the Karakoram Highway also shut down.
Following these tragedies, many tourists are now hesitant to visit the north. Imran Ahmed of Lahore said, “We used to visit Murree or Kalam every year, but the recent events are heartbreaking.” Another visitor, Tariq Mahmood, added, “We turned back from Soon Valley after hearing about landslides. These areas don’t feel safe anymore.”
Experts warn that extreme weather, combined with poor infrastructure and encroachments, is putting popular tourist destinations at greater risk. They call for stronger early warning systems, better emergency planning, and stricter environmental protections.
Tour operator Nadeem Shehzad confirmed that many trips were canceled in early July due to bad weather. “Most tourists accepted safer alternatives offered by professional operators, who prioritize safety. But some unlicensed guides promote risky trips on social media, which can be dangerous,” he said.
In response, the Punjab Tourism Department has introduced Tourism Quality Standards at all sites. Tourism Secretary Raja Jahangir Anwar said mandatory health and safety protocols will be enforced, roads will be constructed to minimize landslide risks, and drainage encroachments will be removed.
“Punjab is divided into three tourism zones: northern regions including Murree and Kotli Sattian, natural lakes and rivers, and southern Punjab. Northern areas face the highest weather risks,” Anwar explained. The government has allocated Rs18 billion to upgrade tourist spots, improve safety, and develop new destinations.
The Tourism Secretary urged the public to check weather updates on the department’s website and contact PDMA’s helpline before traveling to avoid emergencies.
