A swift restoration effort is now underway for the Saiful Muluk Road, following a directive from the district administration to the Kaghan Development Authority (KDA) to reopen the artery without delay. The road, which connects Naran to the famed lake, was severely damaged by flash floods last week, halting tourist access to one of Pakistan’s most beloved destinations. Main Developments On Monday, Deputy Commissioner Mansehra issued an order directing the KDA to immediately move machinery to the site and begin restoring the bumpy road linking Naran with Saiful Muluk Lake. The instruction comes after a team of revenue officials, led by the assistant commissioner on special duty, inspected the artery and found its condition poor for travel. The order emphasizes that restoration should be carried out on a "war footing" to resume tourism activities at the "destination of fairy tales." It notes that the tourism season is currently at its peak in Kaghan Valley, making the lake a major draw for visitors. Read also: Islamabad Chehlum Passes Amid Tight Security; Rawalpindi Gears Up Background Last week, cloudburst-triggered rains caused flash floods that washed away a section of the road, blocking access to the lake. In response, authorities rescued all tourists stranded in around 200 jeeps on July 30, and subsequently closed the road to traffic until further orders to ensure visitor safety. The closure prompted appeals from the local business community, which asked the deputy commissioner to reconsider the decision. Their concerns centered on the economic impact of halting travel to the lake during the busy season. Why It Matters Saiful Muluk Lake is a cornerstone of tourism in Kaghan Valley, drawing thousands of visitors annually. The road closure threatened to disrupt the peak season, affecting not only tourists but also local businesses that depend on the steady flow of travelers. The swift action by the district administration signals a commitment to balancing safety with economic vitality, ensuring that the region’s tourism industry can recover quickly from natural disruptions. What's Next The KDA is expected to mobilize equipment and crews immediately to repair the damaged section. While no timeline has been announced, the directive underscores the urgency, and the business community remains hopeful that the road will reopen in time to salvage the remainder of the peak season.