A snow clearing vehicle removes icy remains of a glacier from the Kaghan road in Balakot as the route reopens after months of closure following heavy winter snowfall. PHOTO: EXPRESS
BALAKOT:
The long wait for the residents and tourists of the Kaghan Valley is over.
After five long months when roads and businesses in Kaghan Valley remained closed, the district administration and the National Highway Authority (NHA) have finally opened the Kaghan Highway for all types of traffic.
As roads reopened, restaurant and shop owners unlocked their shutters and business activity in the region began to recover.
Naran had been cut off since November last year due to heavy snowfall and large glaciers during the winter season, which have now been cleared using heavy machinery.
As soon as the roads were opened, hoteliers and traders went to Naran town to complete preparations before the arrival of the holiday season.
According to the administration, though the road up to Naran town has been cleared, arrangements for the regular arrival of tourists and their accommodation and food are underway and are expected to be completed soon.
The administration said that full supply of water, electricity, sanitation and other basic facilities are being ensured in Naran. As soon as all the facilities are completed, Naran will be opened for tourists to enjoy the enchanting view of the valley without any hassle.
On the other hand, NHA officials said that efforts to open the Kaghan Highway up to Babusar Top are on. The Kaghan Highway will soon be fully operational.
