Several hotels buried under glacier in Naran

BALAKOT: A glacier struck picturesque Naran Valley on Thursday evening, burying several hotels and leaving devastation in its wake.

As the news of the tragedy surfaced, Kaghan Development Authority Director-General Muhammad Shabir Khan sounded cautious saying the routes to Naran were impassable due to heavy snowfall and it was premature to predict the extent of the damage.

Initial reports painted a grim picture, with tales of dozens of hotels succumbing to the glacier’s relentless advance.

The local administration has mobilised teams, pooling their efforts to gather crucial preliminary information amidst the chaos.

Kaghan Development Authority Deputy Director Amin-ul-Hassan stated that the area remains completely closed due to snowfall in November and December.

He said that the roads have been closed since November and December because of the snowfall. “It is normal for glaciers to strike to this area; they fall during this season, and this glacier fell two days ago, with the news now reaching via social media,” he said.

According to reports, he said, e hotels have been buried under the glacier. A meeting of the Kaghan Development Authority has been called for tomorrow, he said adding that the tehsil administration and the department of revenue are gathering details related to the incident.

Meanwhile, the Kaghan highway, the lifeline to Naran’s bustling tourism, remained blocked at multiple points by the glacier.

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In response to the crisis, an emergency meeting of the Balakot Development Authority was convened, bracing for the challenges ahead.

Shabir Khan pledged unwavering support to the affected communities in Naran.

He said a committee has been formed to assess damages and promised assistance in rehabilitation once the roads were cleared.

As the sun sets over the snow-capped peaks, Naran was struck by the ravages of nature. The picturesque tourist destinations nestled in the heart of Mansehra, Naran and Kaghan, are currently draped in a layer of snow.

The local community is gearing up for an influx of visitors, and businesses are bustling with activity as tourists indulge in winter sports, capture scenic photographs, and experience the unique charm that the snowfall brings to these towns