Neelum Valley, a top spot for nature lovers in Azad Kashmir, is now off-limits. The main road into the valley stands fully blocked on September 27, 2025. Local groups have shut it down as part of a larger push against the government. Officials and tourism pages warn people not to head there right now.
The closure stems from the Awami Action Committee, a group pressing for lower prices and better rights. They called for strikes and blockades on September 29. In response, police arrested Raja Ikhtiar Khan, a PTI leader and district council member from Neelum, on September 26. Locals then blocked the highway at Keran to protest the arrest.
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Why the Road is Shut
The Neelum Highway, the only way in, got sealed at Keran after the arrest. This spot sits near the Line of Control, making the area sensitive. The action ties to wider unrest in Azad Kashmir, where folks demand cheaper wheat flour and electricity.
Past events show the valley often closes due to weather or floods. But this time, it’s people power. The August 2025 floods washed away bridges and killed 11, but roads reopened soon after. Now, political heat has brought fresh trouble.
Tourism sites like Pakistan Tourism posted the alert early on September 27, telling visitors to skip the trip. They say the full valley is closed, and safety comes first.
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Impact on Locals and Visitors
People in Neelum face daily woes from the blockade. Goods can’t move, and travel to Muzaffarabad or beyond stalls. The valley draws crowds in September for its green views and rivers, but now hotels and guides sit empty.
For tourists, the advice is clear: Turn back. The road from Muzaffarabad to Athmuqam and beyond stays risky. Check updates before any Azad Kashmir plan.
Official Response and Next Moves
Azad Kashmir officials met on September 26 to handle the stir. They freed some detainees but held firm on key arrests. The Action Committee vows to keep roads shut until demands meet, eyeing the big September 29 rally.
Police urge calm and say they’re watching hotspots. For now, no quick fix in sight.
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See the viral alert post from Pakistan Tourism on X:
Stay Safe and Informed
Neelum’s beauty waits for better days, but safety rules now. Skip the trip and check official sources like the Azad Kashmir tourism site or local news for openings.
This unrest highlights calls for change in the region. Follow nawatimes.com for live updates on Kashmir travel and alerts.
