KDA begins riverbank safety work

BALAKOT:

In anticipation of increased water flow during the ongoing monsoon season, the Kaghan Development Authority (KDA) has launched efforts to eliminate dry patches in the middle of the Kunhar River — areas where tourists often gather for photography and picnics.

Tourists have been advised to keep a safe distance from the river. During a visit to Naran, KDA Director General Shabbir Khan issued further instructions to staff to ensure tourist safety.

According to officials, patrol teams are working across vulnerable locations in the Kaghan Valley to urge tourists to stay away from the riverbanks.

Due to rising water levels in the Kunhar River, Community River Rangers and Tourism Police have been deployed at multiple points to restrict access to the river.

Technical teams have begun removing accessible dry patches along the Naran-Jalkhad Road to prevent tourists from using them.

These areas, though scenic, pose serious safety risks during sudden river swells caused by monsoon rains.

Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Shahab Ali Shah has instructed DG Shabbir Khan to monitor key spots along the river. Patrol teams have also been instructed to inform visitors of the dangers posed by seasonal floods and to enforce safe behaviour near the river.