19/05/2026
*⚠️ TRAVEL ALERT: JUGLOTE-SKARDU ROAD (JSR) DISTRICT SKARDU ⚠️*
*ISSUED ON:* May 19, 2026
*STATUS:* High Risk / Restrict Unnecessary Travel
*🚨 Urgent Advisory for Tourists and Local Commuters*
According to the latest weather advisory issued by the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) / Met Office Islamabad, a strong westerly wave has entered the upper regions of the country. Heavy rain, windstorms, and thunderstorms are currently affecting District Skardu and surrounding areas of Gilgit-Baltistan, and are expected to persist until May 23, 2026.
Due to the treacherous terrain and geological vulnerability of the region, the Met Office has explicitly warned of heightened environmental hazards. All non-essential travel on the Juglote-Skardu Road (JSR) should be strictly avoided until weather conditions clear.
*🏔️ Key Risks & Dangerous Sectors (PMD Warnings)*
The Met Office Islamabad has highlighted specific vulnerabilities for mountainous routes like the JSR during this wet spell:
- *Landslides and Rockfalls*: The PMD has issued a specific warning that moderate to isolated heavy rainfall may trigger landslides in vulnerable areas of Gilgit-Baltistan. High-risk choke points including Shangus, Brumdo,Maloopa Parri, are highly susceptible to sudden rockfalls.
- *Flash Floods & Mudslides*: Heavy downpours can rapidly cause seasonal streams and natural water channels along the highway to overflow, creating dangerous mud floods across the road.
- *Zero Visibility & Windstorms*: Accompanying windstorms and severe lightning significantly decrease visibility and vehicle stability, making winding mountain passes highly dangerous.
*📋 Guidelines for Travelers in the Region*
- *Defer Travel Plans*: In line with PMD’s directive advising tourists to remain cautious, if you are planning to head toward Skardu or leave the district via JSR, delay your journey. Stay in safe accommodations.
- *Strictly Avoid Night Travel*: Traveling after dark during rainy weather is heavily discouraged due to invisible landslide hazards and delayed emergency response.
- *Monitor Official Updates*: Keep a close eye on notifications from the Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA) and the National Highway Authority (NHA).
- *Emergency Kit*: If you are already en route and get stranded, remain inside your vehicle away from vulnerable slopes. Ensure you have extra fuel, warm clothing, food, and essential medications.
*📞 Emergency Contacts & Assistance:*
- *Deputy Commissioner office control room Skardu no*: 05815-920200
- *District Police Control Room Helpline Skardu*: 05815-15
- *Rescue Helpline Skardu*: 05815-1122
Please cooperate with local traffic police and security check posts at entry/exit points for your own safety.
*Stay Safe,
DDMA Skardu*
