SDMA AJK Rescues 700+ Tourists Stranded in Ratti Gali After Flash Floods
— August 15, 2025
MUZAFFARABAD (AIA) In a major rescue operation, the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) of Azad Jammu and Kashmir successfully evacuated over 700 tourists who were stranded in the scenic Ratti Gali area of Neelum Valley due to flash floods and road collapse.
According to SDMA officials, the 23-hour-long operation involved safely guiding the stranded individuals to the main road after approximately 1.5 kilometers of road was swept away by floodwaters.
A medical camp was promptly set up at the site in coordination with the Pakistan Army, while the district administration and DDMA provided food and basic supplies to the affected tourists. Once stabilized, the tourists were transported back to their respective destinations.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid non-essential travel to vulnerable areas amid ongoing monsoon activity and the threat of landslides. Citizens are advised to follow official advisories and safety guidelines.