MUZAFFARABAD
The administration successfully conducted timely and effective relief operations in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Friday and Saturday following heavy snowfall that caused severe road blockages and left several citizens stranded in harsh weather conditions.
Due to continuous snowfall, the main road connecting Kotli to Nikyal was blocked at multiple points, resulting in numerous vehicles being stuck, with families and individuals facing extreme cold and limited access to basic necessities. Responding swiftly to the situation, the Pakistan Army initiated immediate relief measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected population.
On January 23, at approximately 8:22 PM, a Lieutenant Colonel (Commanding Officer), accompanied by another officer and Pakistan Army troops, proceeded towards the Peer Nasora point, where several vehicles were immobilized due to heavy snow accumulation.
An Army vehicle carrying essential relief supplies, including food items, clean drinking water, hot tea, juices, and petrol, reached the affected area despite challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions. The stranded individuals were promptly provided with food and refreshments, while families—particularly women, children, and the elderly—were safely evacuated and shifted to secure locations.
A civil rescue team from Kotli also reached at the site and actively participated in the relief efforts alongside the Pakistan Army, demonstrating effective coordination between military and civil authorities.
Through joint and coordinated efforts of the Pakistan Army and the civil administration, the Kotli–Nikyal road was completely cleared of snow, reopened for traffic, and normal movement was restored.
The Pakistan Army has once again reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of the people and to extending all possible assistance during natural disasters and emergencies.
The timely response reflects the Army’s dedication to serving the nation in every difficult hour.
Meanwhile, another army and civil administration joint team rescued 35 people stranded at Mehmood Gali in Poonch district due to heavy snowfall and evacuated to nearby village to save their lives. They were travelling to Haveli district with a deadbody from Rawalpindi to bury there. Due to heavy snowfall, all in the interdistrict roads in Muzaffarabad and Poonch divisions are closed since Friday morning and main highway leading to Islamabad through Muree is also blocked and the administration has advised people to refrain from travelling.
