Tourists Throng Frozen Andarab Lake Kalam

Winter tourism in Swat has taken a thrilling turn as hundreds of visitors are flocking to the magnificent Andarab Lake in Kalam Valley. The lake is now completely frozen and has become a hotspot for adventure lovers who are enjoying unique activities like ice skating and running on the snow-covered surface. This sudden surge in visitors is largely due to a new dirt track constructed by the provincial government last year, which allows 4x4 vehicles to reach the site directly. Previously, this scenic glacial lake was only accessible through a strenuous seven-hour hike, which kept visitor numbers low and helped preserve its pristine natural beauty for decades.

While tourists from cities like Lahore and Islamabad are delighted by the experience, describing it as unforgettable and thrilling, local experts are raising valid alarms. Environmentalists and climate activists have expressed serious concerns regarding the safety of walking on ice layers that may crack unexpectedly due to changing temperatures. Furthermore, they fear that this unchecked influx of people will lead to severe pollution and ecological damage, similar to the degradation seen at Mahodand Lake. There is a growing demand for the government to introduce strict safety guidelines and waste management strategies to effectively balance tourism promotion with the protection of these fragile mountain ecosystems.