Published on, Aug. 25 -- August 25, 2025 1:59 AM

Authorities in the federal capital have decided to close hiking trails for the public amid a heavy-rainfall warning to ensure the safety of citizens, the district magistrate's office said in a notification.

The decision touches a cherished weekend hiking culture in a city built at the foot of the Margalla Hills, part of the Himalayan range.

Last month, Saidpur Village on the Margallas witnessed hill torrents after about 150 millimeters of rain, sweeping away vehicles. Since then, authorities have been shutting nearby trails during heavy-rain alerts, as the routes are prone to sudden flooding.

"In view of the heavy to very heavy rainfall forecast for the next 72 hours by the Pakistan Met...