Thousands of tourists throng the scenic hill station of Murree during snowfall every year. However, the getaway turned tragic this weekend when dozens perished in the extreme cold and numerous others were stranded overnight in freezing temperatures.
The scenic hilltop with a population of just over 25,000 has a capacity of 4,000 vehicles but there is an influx every year. The government has failed to take preventive measures to regulate accommodation and traffic despite making claims that efforts are being to boost tourism in the region.
The tragedy in Murree could have been easily prevented or the losses minimized. Despite warnings of heavy snowfall, authorities and local administration, particularly the Rawalpindi Commissioner, failed to heed advice, leading to the tragic loss of lives. This is criminal negligence that must be investigated and action should be taken against those responsible for their incompetency and callous attitude.
The snowfall was not unprecedented or record level as claimed by several government officials. Murree receives similar levels of snow at this time of the year. The Met Office had warned that heavy snowfall can cause road closures in the region and advised authorities to remain alert. Alas, these were ignored and tourists were not given any travel advisory and stopped from visiting due to harsh weather.
The government has attempted to shrug off responsibility by claiming that visitors should be adequately prepared which travelling in extreme weather and check the weather update. Tourists will be attracted due to the snowfall and blaming them for visiting the area is rather absurd. Citizens should heed advice and make arrangements such as wearing winter clothing and having accommodation rather than spending the entire time in their car before help arrives.
While action should be taken against the district administration for their negligence, we should learn lessons before another tragedy unfolds. We need to implement an effective travel advisory system warning people in case of extreme weather. The government also needs to increase the existing infrastructure and regulate the flow of tourists to prevent such incidents.
