Web desk: The Neelum Highway has been reopened for all types of traffic on Wednesday. Previously, the highway had been blocked for several hours due to a landslide near Shaikh Bela.
The timely clearance was carried out through joint efforts by the Highway Department and the Pakistan Army. This has helped ensure the safe passage of vehicles and restore normal traffic flow in the area.
Shaikh Bela is also usually spelt Sheikh Bela. It is a village and area in the upper Neelum Valley of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Pakistan.
Last year, as well, a major rockfall near Shaikh Bela disrupted the main highway in the valley. It left the tourists and local residents stranded and facing travel difficulties.
Kel Shaikh Bela has long been prone to landslides.
Previously, the scenic Neelum Valley of Azad Kashmir faced severe disruption following the cloudburst in Nala Jagran in August.
Recently, the first rain and snowfall of the winter season have sharply increased the cold in the valley.
According to the Meteorological Department, more rain and snowfall were expected in the upper areas over the coming week.
Residents of the affected villages urged the Azad Kashmir government and district administration to take immediate action to repair the damaged roads and bridges to restore normal life in the region.
