Heavy Snowfall Strands Passengers and Cargo at Khunjerab Pass

GILGIT: Heavy snowfall and rain have left numerous passengers, tourists, and cargo containers stranded at Khunjerab Pass on the Pakistan-China border, causing significant disruptions on Friday. The adverse weather conditions have resulted in slippery roads, leading to accidents and delays for those traveling through the region.

Reports indicate that three cargo containers skidded off the Karakoram Highway (KKH) due to the treacherous conditions, although the drivers were successfully rescued. Among those affected was Gilgit-Baltistan Minister for Tourism Naiknaam Karim, who voiced his concerns regarding the inadequate facilities and machinery available to clear the snow on the Pakistani side of the border.

A police official from Gilgit-Baltistan confirmed that snowfall continues at Khunjerab Top, leaving several vehicles and dozens of containers carrying imported goods from China stranded for extended periods. The GB police have issued warnings about the hazardous travel conditions, urging travelers to avoid unnecessary journeys until the weather improves.

Authorities are assessing the situation and coordinating efforts to clear the roads, but stranded passengers have expressed frustration over the government’s lack of preparedness for such weather events. As conditions remain challenging, updates on road clearance and travel advisories are expected in the coming days.