The tourism department has issued an advisory for tourists from July 21 to 29 due to the recent monsoon rains in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Tourists have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel due to the risk of flash floods, landslides and overflowing rivers at tourist sites.

According to the PDMA, the recent series of rains is likely to continue till July 31.

Speaking to Aaj News, Secretary Tourism Dr. Abdul Samad said that tourists are being warned repeatedly, but most people do not follow the advisory.

He also added that the incident in Swat is a lesson, so tourists should call 1422 and find out the situation before leaving for any place.

Samad further stated that yesterday, the road was closed due to a landslide after a cloudburst on Lake Saif-ul-Muluk Road, while the Kaghan Development Authority took immediate action and rescued more than 500 tourists.

According to the report issued by the PDMA in the province, 63 people have died since June 25 and 79 have been injured. The dead include 36 children, 11 women and 16 men. The highest number of deaths occurred in North Waziristan (11), Swat (9), Mardan (7) and Charsadda (6). Landslides completely destroyed 45 houses while partially damaged 247 houses.

In Naran, more than 500 tourists and 117 vehicles on Lake Saif-ul-Muluk Road, who were safely evacuated.

The Department of Tourism and the PDMA have requested the public to strictly follow the advisory and completely avoid going to river banks or dangerous areas to prevent loss of life.