Amid recent deadly incidents in Gilgit-Baltistan, the Motorway Police have issued a warning to tourists heading to Pakistan’s northern regions, highlighting the urgent need for vehicle inspections and weather monitoring before travel.
Speaking on Geo Pakistan, DIG Motorway Police Syed Fareed Ali noted that many tourists are often unprepared for the challenges posed by mountainous routes. He stressed that even minor mechanical issues can escalate into life-threatening situations in remote areas where emergency support is scarce.
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He advised all travellers to ensure their vehicles are fully roadworthy, with special attention to tyres, brakes, batteries, and lights. Tourists were also encouraged to plan carefully by checking the weather, confirming accommodation, and assigning more than one driver per trip to avoid fatigue-related errors on difficult roads.
His comments follow the tragic discovery of four tourists who went missing on May 15 while travelling from Gilgit to Skardu. Their vehicle was found in a deep ravine near Istak village in Skardu’s Roundu valley. Among the victims was a Pakistani-origin Italian national.
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In a separate incident last month, a Thai tourist was killed and another injured after their vehicle was hit by falling rocks near Ghawari in Ghanche district.
Officials continue to stress caution for travellers visiting the region, citing unpredictable weather and the hazards of mountainous terrain. With summer tourism on the rise, authorities aim to reduce accidents through early awareness and preventive safety measures.