As winter tightens its grip on the mountainous regions of Pakistan, the iconic Babusar Top finds itself shrouded in an unexpected blanket of snow. Local authorities have taken the proactive step of closing the pass earlier than the usual schedule due to substantial snowfall, according to reports from a local media outlet. While the closure is deemed temporary, it highlights the challenges posed by the unforgiving winter conditions in this breathtaking region.
Babusar Top closed for traffic due to heavy snowfall pic.twitter.com/DQBQm3oRFc
— PAMIR TIMES ® (@pamirtimes) October 14, 2023
Deputy Commissioner Diamer Arif Ahmed indicated that this closure is potentially temporary. He mentioned that the pass could be reopened once weather conditions improve and the snow is cleared.It’s worth noting that under normal circumstances, the pass stays closed for eight months, spanning from November to June.
The Details
The heavy snowfall has compelled the local administration to impose restrictions on road access ahead of the usual schedule. As an alternative route during this period, travelers can utilize the Karakoram Highway.
The Deputy Commissioner emphasized that the reopening of the pass hinges on weather conditions, typically closing in November due to significant snowfall and freezing temperatures. The journey from Diamer to Mansehra via the Karakoram Highway takes 14 hours, contrasting with the 7-hour route through Babusar Pass.
Recent heavy snowfall left numerous tourists stranded, eventually relocated to Chilas City by local authorities. The extreme -15 temperature renders nighttime police duties impractical.
The prolonged closure of the road is compounded by security concerns and slippery conditions. A tragic incident underscores this, where a tourist from Punjab lost his life during a robbery attempt at Babusar top. The assailants obstructed the road with large stones, prompting the driver to reverse the car upon detecting danger. Regrettably, Mohammad Rashid, the victim, succumbed to gunshot wounds inflicted by the perpetrators.
As the Babusar Pass closes its gates earlier than anticipated, it serves as a reminder of the uncontrollable forces of nature that shape life in these mountainous landscapes.
