ISLAMABAD: Anticipating a large number of visitors to tourist destinations during the ongoing winter spell, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued guidelines for tourists.

According to a statement, considering past experiences, the winter season, which will last till Feb 2023, was expected to attract tourists to Murree, Galiyat, Abbottabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, Naran, Kaghan and other areas.

There is a dire need to adopt pro-active measures apart from fore-warning/guidance against the developing situation and accordingly take requisite pre-cautionary measures, it noted.

Tourists and other visitors to Pakistan have been advised to regularly check the weather forecast for planned destinations from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and NDMA`s website for updated weather information.

They have also been asked to check NDMA`s web portal and social media handles (Twitter and Instagram) for remaining updated on the developing situation. Also check/consult websites for area specific alerts and advisories, the statement said.

Before departing, they have also been told to check withNational Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) on their website or helpline for the status/road condition of the intended route before departure, carry basic travel necessities especially dry food, which can suffice for basic needs of all accompanying travellers for a period of at least 24 hours.

Tourists have been asked to carry specific medicine for any ailment or sickness a fellow passenger may suffer from.

They have been advised to check the requirement of anti-skid/tire chains and coordinate over their availability in case of need, follow guidance arrangements of NHMP,Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) and traffic police for ensuring safety during travelling,ensure proper checking and maintenance of vehicle from a mechanic and carry a spare tire, checked and filled with required air pressure, radiator fluids and lubricants, as advised by the mechanic.

Tourists have also been asked to carry warm clothes and keep a passage for fresh air circulation through air conditioning mechanism or keeping a window slightly ajar, and ensure availability of accommodation and seek prior confirmation from hotel/guestroom for reservations before departing on a trip.Staff Reporter