At least 21 tourists have died after being trapped in their vehicles amid snowy weather in northern Pakistan. With around 1,000 vehicles still stranded, the government has declared Murri, 64 km northeast of the capital Islamabad, as a disaster-hit area. Pakistan's Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed said in a video message, "For the first time in 15 to 20 years, tourists came to Murree in such a large number, which created a big crisis." The minister said that around 1,000 cars were stuck in the hill station, in which 21 persons died.
According to a piece of news received, he said that army platoons and paramilitary forces have been deployed to assist the civil administration in the rescue operation. Late on Friday, the government announced the closure of all routes leading to the station to prevent any influx of tourists.
PM Imran Khan expressed grief over the unfortunate deaths of tourists. In a tweet, Khan said, "Investigation and strict rules have been ordered to ensure prevention of such tragedies." Information Minister Fawad Chaudhary appealed to the people not to come to the hill station. The snowfall that began on Tuesday night continued at regular intervals, attracting thousands of tourists. Due to the huge rush of tourists, many families are stuck on the roads. Local media reported that over 1,00,000 vehicles entered the hill station. In a video shared on social media, entire families, including children, are seen lying dead in their snow-covered vehicles.
Korea's kimchi exports reach new highs in 2021
Myanmar extends ceasefire until end of 2022
Arab League welcomes UN's involvement in Sudan's political transition