Lake Saif ul Malook Road Closed After Heavy Rains Trigger Landslides in Hazara

Hazara – (Staff Reporter/Web Desk) – The Lake Saif ul Malook road closed notice was issued by local authorities after non-stop monsoon rain hit the upper parts of Hazara Division. The heavy downpour caused landslides, flash floods, and blocked roads at many points. Officials say the route will stay shut until further notice, as safety comes first for tourists and locals alike.

The rain has been relentless over the past day. Streams turned into rushing torrents. Loose soil on the hillsides gave way in several spots, leaving debris scattered across the road. Traffic officials moved fast to close the path before anyone got hurt.

This isn’t just a minor detour. The Naran to Saif ul Malook stretch is a lifeline for tourists heading up to one of Pakistan’s most loved lakes. Thousands travel this road every week during peak season. Now, that flow has come to a full stop.

Why the Closure Was Necessary

Weather experts at the Pakistan Meteorological Department warned of possible cloudbursts in the coming hours. This kind of sudden, intense rain can trigger flash floods with little warning. Combined with already-soaked hillsides, the risk of fresh landslides remains high.

The National Disaster Management Authority and the Provincial Disaster Management Authority both echoed the same message. Stay away from the area until conditions settle down.

In Mansehra district, the Kunhar River has swelled well beyond its normal flow. Smaller seasonal streams nearby are also filling up quickly. Locals living close to the water have been told to move to higher ground if needed and to watch for any sudden changes.

Low-lying areas face a real threat of urban flooding too. Officials are asking everyone in the region to take these warnings seriously, not lightly.

Tourists Told to Wait

If you had plans to visit Naran, Kaghan, Babusar Top, or the lake itself, it’s best to hold off for now. District officials have made this appeal directly to travelers hoping to enjoy the valley’s scenery this season.

Patience matters here. A short delay is far better than getting caught in a landslide zone or stuck behind a flooded stream crossing.

Once the rain eases and the weather stabilizes, road crews will begin clearing debris and repairing damaged sections. There’s no fixed date for reopening yet, since it all depends on how the weather behaves over the next few days.

For now, the message from local authorities is simple. Avoid unnecessary travel. Stay clear of rivers and slopes. Follow official updates before planning any trip to the upper valleys.

The situation is being monitored closely, and further advisories are expected as conditions change.