Authorities have decided to conclude the snowfall emergency season in Murree by February 28 after an exceptionally dry winter caused a major economic setback for businesses relying on tourism.
Due to the lack of snowfall, traders and shopkeepers from Karachi, Lahore, Faisalabad, and local markets have suffered losses worth millions.
This season, neither families nor children were able to enjoy the snow, nor did businesses flourish as expected.
Anticipating a busy tourism period, major traders had rented shops at high costs, stocked up on jackets, sweaters, shoes, gifts, cultural shawls, and artificial jewellery, and even constructed new hotels, motels, and guest houses.
However, the reduced snowfall resulted in disastrous sales, leaving businesses struggling.
Murree's winter season usually lasts from December 20 to February 15, but this year's minimal snowfall disrupted the entire tourism cycle. Temporary vendors selling toys, horse rides, and street food also faced a slump in business.
To account for the possibility of late snowfall, the snowfall emergency was extended until February 28, but with Ramazan approaching, Murree's winter tourism season is practically over.
Once the emergency ends, additional officials and personnel deployed in Murree will return to Rawalpindi, and 19 special facilitation centres will be deactivated.
The dry season has not only impacted Murree's economy but also lowered underground water levels and reduced dam reserves in the Rawalpindi division.
The lack of snowfall has discouraged tourists from across the country, and for the first time in years, Murree did not experience traffic congestion due to excessive visitor inflows.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ