By Heavy snowfall at Khunjerab Pass along the Pakistan-China border has disrupted traffic, leaving tourists, passengers, and dozens of cargo containers stranded on the Karakoram Highway (KKH). The worsening weather conditions have made the high-altitude route dangerous, with several vehicles reportedly skidding on snow and ice-covered roads.
According to Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) police, snowfall continued at Khunjerab Top on Friday, creating hazardous driving conditions for motorists travelling through the region. Several vehicles lost control on the slippery road, including three cargo containers. Fortunately, the drivers were rescued safely.
In one incident, a Chinese cargo container overturned after skidding on the snow-covered road. Local travellers and police personnel responded quickly and rescued the driver, who escaped without injuries.
Tourism Minister Naiknaam Karim Among Stranded Passengers
Gilgit-Baltistan Tourism Minister Naiknaam Karim was also among the passengers stranded due to the road closure and severe weather conditions.
In a video message, the minister highlighted concerns regarding snow clearance operations on the Pakistan-China border route. He stated that the Chinese side of the border had already been cleared of snow, while the Pakistani side remained covered with approximately four inches of snow and ice.
He further explained that multiple vehicles had skidded because of the slippery road surface, increasing the risk of accidents for passengers and cargo transporters.
The tourism minister urged the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) to immediately deploy snow-clearing machinery to the affected area and restore safe traffic movement along the Karakoram Highway.
Passengers Raise Concerns Over Delayed Snow Clearance
Stranded passengers expressed frustration over the lack of timely road clearance despite worsening snowfall and deteriorating travel conditions.
The situation has raised concerns about road maintenance and emergency preparedness at Khunjerab Pass, particularly during periods of extreme winter weather. The route is an important connection between Pakistan and China, supporting tourism, local transportation, and cross-border cargo movement.
Heavy snowfall and icy road conditions can significantly increase the risk of accidents in mountainous areas, making timely snow removal essential for maintaining safe transportation.
Police Issue Travel Advisory for Tourists and Motorists
Following the disruption, Gilgit-Baltistan police advised tourists, passengers, and motorists to avoid unnecessary travel towards Khunjerab Pass until weather and road conditions improve.
Authorities have also urged travellers to check road conditions before starting their journeys. Anyone requiring updated information or assistance can contact the police helpline at 15.
Travellers planning trips to the region should remain cautious, follow official travel advisories, and avoid driving on snow-covered roads without proper safety arrangements.
The latest snowfall at Khunjerab Pass has once again highlighted the challenges of maintaining traffic movement on the mountainous Karakoram Highway during winter. With tourists and cargo vehicles stranded and several vehicles skidding, the immediate deployment of snow-clearing machinery is crucial to restoring safe travel.
Timely coordination between the relevant authorities, police, and the FWO will be essential to prevent further accidents and ensure the safety of passengers travelling along this important Pakistan-China route.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the information available at the time of writing. Road and weather conditions may change, so travellers should follow official advisories before departure.
