Tragedy in Naran: Glacier Collapse Kills Tourists
The incident highlights the need for tourists to be aware of the potential dangers of glacier tourism and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety, as the rapid melting of glaciers due to hot weather increases the risk of such tragedies.
A devastating incident occurred at Sohni Waterfall in Naran, Hazara Division, where a glacier collapsed, resulting in the deaths of three tourists from Lahore, who were taking photos near the glacier when the tragedy struck.
The victims, identified as Tahir (35), Abu Bakar (13), and Tayyab (22), were from Harbanspura, Lahore, and were on a trip to the scenic area when the glacier suddenly collapsed, crushing them instantly. A rescue operation was promptly launched, and the bodies were recovered and shifted to the DHQ Hospital for further proceedings.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with taking photos in unstable areas, particularly near glaciers, where the risk of collapse is ever-present. Advisor to K-P CM Zahid Chanzeb expressed his sorrow over the incident and urged tourists to exercise caution and avoid such areas, emphasizing the importance of safety protocols at tourist sites.
The tragedy is part of a larger trend of tourists prioritizing selfies over safety, resulting in the loss of dozens of lives each year. Just recently, a similar incident occurred in Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where three tourists from Lahore lost their lives in a glacial slide while taking selfies near the Sohni Waterfall.
As the tourism industry continues to grow, it is essential for authorities to strengthen safety measures and raise awareness among tourists about the potential risks associated with visiting such areas, ensuring that they can enjoy the natural beauty of places like Naran while minimizing the risks to their safety.