While the new year’s first snowfall has attracted a large number of tourists to the mountains of Abbottabad, it has also cut off many local residents. The closure of several link roads due to slippery conditions has forced the public to demand immediate action to ensure access to essential supplies.
The snowfall, which began on Wednesday evening, has covered the upper tourist areas of Abbottabad district, including Galiyat, Ayubia, Thandiani, and Circle Bakote, blanketing the entire landscape in white.
In response to the situation, government agencies including Rescue 1122, the Galiyat Development Authority, the Highway Department, and the police have been mobilized. Their efforts have kept the main Abbottabad-Murree highway fully operational for the continuous flow of tourists.
However, operations to clear snow from other crucial routes, such as the Nathia Gali-Bakote Road, only began this morning. As of now, many of these secondary roads remain impassable due to hazardous conditions.
For the local population, this is a mixed blessing. Gratitude has been expressed for the end of a long dry spell, and many are hopeful that the snow will replenish dwindling water reservoirs and help curb the spread of diseases associated with the recent drought.
Despite these benefits, the community’s immediate concern is access to all link roads. Residents are urging authorities to keep these routes clear to facilitate the supply of essential commodities and ensure safe transportation during the severe cold.