BALAKOT: Torrential rains, flash floods, and sudden cloudbursts have brought tourism in Kaghan Valley to a standstill this season, leaving once-bustling spots like Naran, Shogran, Babusar Top, and Kaghan eerily empty. Tourist turnout during the peak months of July and August dropped sharply, causing major losses for hotels, restaurants, transporters, and local vendors who rely heavily on seasonal income.
The valley, already at risk due to the growing impacts of climate change, is facing an alarming rate of glacial melt this year. June remained dry and quiet, but the situation quickly shifted in July and August with continuous rain triggering deadly landslides, blocked roads, flash floods, and overflowing rivers. These back-to-back disasters not only destroyed infrastructure but also kept tourists away during what should have been the busiest months.
Local businesses, many of which are small family-run setups, are now struggling to stay afloat. “We wait all year for these few months. This time, we’ve earned almost nothing,” said a hotel owner in Naran.
Climate experts warn that such extreme weather patterns may become the new normal if action is not taken. They urge the government and authorities to implement long-term strategies to protect the valley. A key recommendation is to crack down on illegal construction near rivers, which blocks natural water paths and worsens flooding.
Without timely intervention, the valley’s fragile tourism based economy may suffer for years to come.
