Heavy snowfall and rain have led to the closure of educational institutions in several districts of Galiyat and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, officials confirmed on Monday.
In Abbottabad, all public and private educational institutions in Galiyat will remain closed for four days due to heavy snowfall.
Schools in union councils Barangli, Nagri Bala, Nathia Gali, Tajwal Pattan Kalan, Kokum, Namli Mira, and Khaira Gali have also been shut down due to the extreme weather conditions.
District Education Officer (DEO) Iftikharul Ghani has issued an official notification directing the closure of schools in Galiyat until March 7. Subordinate officers have been instructed to ensure compliance with the order.
The DEO had written to the deputy commissioner (DC), recommending a three-day holiday for schools in affected areas to ensure student safety.
Similarly, in Azad Kashmir, authorities have announced a holiday tomorrow in schools across five districts due to extreme weather conditions.
Poonch Commissioner Sardar Waheed confirmed that all educational institutions in four districts of Poonch Division will remain closed tomorrow. Meanwhile, Muzaffarabad Division Commissioner Masoodur Rehman declared a holiday for all schools in Neelum district.
Authorities have also advised tourists to avoid travelling to Neelum Valley and Leepa Valley due to hazardous road conditions and potential travel difficulties.
Rescue teams and local administration are on high alert, working to clear roads and ensure public safety. Citizens are urged to stay updated on weather advisories before planning any travel.
Furthermore, heavy snowfall in Murree and Galiyat has led to road closures and travel restrictions, prompting the district administration to ban tourist entry to prevent travel difficulties, officials confirmed on Monday.
In Murree, the district administration has banned the entry of tourists to prevent travel difficulties. The Murree Expressway has been closed from the 17th Mile Toll Plaza, while the Highway Department is actively working to clear snow-covered roads. Machinery has been deployed to restore connectivity, and salt is being sprinkled to prevent vehicles from slipping on icy roads.
The severe weather has also affected the electricity supply, causing disruptions in several areas. Additionally, dense fog and strong winds have intensified the cold wave in the region. The number of tourists in Murree remains low, particularly due to Ramadan.
Meanwhile, according to Galiyat DSP Imtiaz, the decision has been taken to ensure public safety as snowfall has made roads impassable. He advised tourists to avoid traveling to the region until conditions improve.
Additionally, the authorities have banned entry from Barian and Harno into Galiyat amid potential hazards caused by extreme weather.
