Babusar Top blocked: NDMA issues urgent advisory for tourists

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Islamabad, July 23, 2025 – The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a critical advisory following massive landslides that have severely disrupted traffic flow in the northern regions of Pakistan, particularly at Babusar Top and along the Karakoram Highway (KKH).

According to the NDMA, both directions of Babusar Top are now completely blocked, cutting off access to and from several key tourist destinations.

The blockage, caused by a series of landslides triggered by ongoing monsoon rains, has made Babusar Top inaccessible and dangerous. The NDMA has urged all tourists and travelers to immediately cancel or postpone planned trips to the affected areas. “The situation is highly volatile, and the risk of further landslides remains significantly high,” said an NDMA spokesperson.

The advisory stressed that the terrain around Babusar Top has become increasingly unstable due to heavy rainfall, making even emergency passage impossible at this stage. Tourists already in nearby regions are advised to remain in place, avoid unnecessary movement, and cooperate with local authorities and rescue personnel.

The NDMA further highlighted that rescue and clearance operations are currently underway, but the unpredictability of weather patterns and further erosion of hillsides is hampering progress. Travelers are strongly encouraged to remain in contact with verified government communication channels, including FM radio updates, official NDMA social media handles, and local disaster response teams.

In addition, the public is strongly discouraged from using unofficial or alternative routes to bypass the blockages at Babusar Top, as such detours may lead into uncharted or risk-prone areas, increasing the danger of getting stranded or caught in hazardous conditions.

In case of emergency, the NDMA has urged people to follow the instructions of local administration teams and civil defense personnel. Compliance with safety measures and staying informed through authentic sources is critical for personal safety and to facilitate ongoing relief operations.

The NDMA has reiterated that it is working closely with provincial authorities and the armed forces to restore road access to Babusar Top and affected parts of the Karakoram region as swiftly and safely as possible.