As domestic tourism surges across Pakistan’s northern and mountainous regions, former Managing Director of Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) and current Board member, Salman Javed, has raised alarm over growing safety concerns during the ongoing monsoon season.

Speaking to APP, Mr. Javed voiced deep concern over the increasing number of tragedies and accidents, particularly in areas prone to flooding and landslides. He attributed these incidents to poor regulatory oversight, inadequate facilitation by local authorities, and a lack of awareness among tourists themselves.

Citing recent figures, he pointed out that the past two months have seen a disturbing rise in fatalities, including 17 lives lost in floods along the Swat River alone.

Mr. Javed urged the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), provincial governments, and the administrations of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir to urgently develop a joint action plan aimed at ensuring tourist safety, disaster preparedness, and rapid infrastructure rehabilitation.

He emphasized the critical need for a nationwide awareness campaign—utilizing both print and electronic media—to inform travelers about:

• The dangers of overexertion during long drives

• Risks of hiring unregistered transport

• Avoiding vulnerable areas during extreme weather

“Tourism cannot thrive without responsible practices and strong infrastructure,” he remarked.

Mr. Javed also called upon both government agencies and private sector investors to focus on repairing key access routes and damaged bridges, many of which have been affected by heavy monsoon rains.

He stressed the importance of keeping heavy machinery and repair teams on standby throughout the tourist season, particularly in river-adjacent and landslide-prone zones, to ensure swift response in emergencies.

He concluded that, with better preparedness and cooperation, Pakistan could offer a safer, more sustainable, and fulfilling travel experience for both domestic and international tourists.