Seven tourists, including two women and a local driver, were killed after a jeep plunged into a ravine near Fairy Meadows during Pakistan’s peak summer tourism season.
WebDesk – MediaBites News
A tragic jeep accident near Pakistan’s famous northern tourist destination, Fairy Meadows, has left seven people dead, including the driver, according to local sources and eyewitness accounts.
The accident reportedly occurred while the jeep was returning from Tattu village toward Raikot on the steep mountainous track leading from Fairy Meadows. Local residents said the vehicle plunged off the road shortly after departing Tattu village on Tuesday evening.
According to preliminary information shared by locals in the area, the victims included tourists from different parts of Pakistan. Two of the deceased were reportedly from Peshawar, while four others belonged to Punjab, including two women. The driver, identified as a resident of Darel in Gilgit-Baltistan, also lost his life in the crash.
Local hotel operators and residents familiar with the tourists said the group had arrived in the area together for sightseeing and photography. Some members of the group had reportedly visited a local hotel in Fairy Meadows a day before the accident.
Authorities have yet to release an official statement confirming the identities of the victims or the exact cause of the crash. However, local observers believe the accident may have been caused by a mechanical failure during a downhill descent on the narrow mountain road.
Residents familiar with the route described the Fairy Meadows track as extremely challenging but generally safe when driven carefully by experienced local drivers. Outside drivers are usually not permitted on the route due to the difficult terrain and dangerous bends.
According to locals, the accident did not occur during a vehicle crossing but likely on a downhill curve after the old bridge area near Tattu village. Some suggested the jeep may have suffered steering or axle failure, while others pointed to possible gear-handling issues during the descent.
Experts and local drivers say vehicles on steep mountain roads should ideally descend in lower gears without excessive braking to avoid losing control. Some residents also expressed concern over speeding and overconfidence among drivers during the busy tourist season.
The Fairy Meadows route, considered one of Pakistan’s most scenic yet dangerous mountain tracks, attracts thousands of domestic and foreign tourists every year due to its breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat.
Tourism activity in northern Pakistan is currently at its seasonal peak, with heavy tourist movement across Gilgit-Baltistan and nearby valleys.
Social media users and local communities expressed grief over the tragedy, offering prayers for the victims and urging tourists and transport operators to prioritize safety while traveling on mountainous routes.
Authorities are expected to investigate the incident further to determine the exact circumstances behind the deadly crash.
