Imagine lacing up your hiking boots, filling a water bottle, and heading out for a cooling hike on Margalla Hills trails—only to find yourself greeted by shut gates and warning notices. That’s not merely a minor inconvenience; it’s an urgent reminder of just how hazardous the monsoon months can be in Islamabad. With the Pakistan Meteorological Department predicting heavy to torrential rain, the authorities have temporarily shut Islamabad hiking trails to safeguard hikers, tourists, and families from possible dangers such as flash floods and landslides.
Why Authorities Closed Margalla Hills Trails
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has also put out a severe rain warning for the next 72 hours. In response to this prediction, the Capital Development Authority (CDA), along with the District Magistrate, ordered the closure of popular Margalla Hills trekking trails.
The trails affected are Trail 2, Trail 3, Trail 4, Trail 5, and the trail behind Saidpur Village. These trails are being closed as part of a larger initiative to make Islamabad a safer place for its public, particularly since slippery tracks and flash floods in nullahs close by are deadly threats.
Gilgit Airport Flights are also cancel
Duration and Scope of Closure
The trails, as per the notification, will be closed until 19 August 2025. Administrators have made it clear that no visitor or hiker will be granted access during this time. It’s not the case of Islamabad alone being under watch—that is happening in other areas as well.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the districts of Dir, Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, and Mansehra are also preparing for heavy monsoon rains and likely flash flooding. Likewise, Islamabad’s twin cities might see an increase in local streams’ water levels, precipitating sudden crises.
Public Safety Measures in Place
The closure of Margalla Hills trails is a reflection of the seriousness with which authorities are addressing the monsoon rains in Pakistan this year. Security personnel and Capital Police have been deployed to trail entrances to prevent unauthorized entry. Rescue units stand ready to act swiftly on any occasion resulting from flash flooding or landslides.
Residents in low-lying areas of Islamabad and Rawalpindi have also been instructed to exercise caution, stay at home unless absolutely necessary, and keep themselves updated with official weather updates.
Monsoon Season Risks Across Pakistan
The monsoon season in Pakistan is life-giving to crops but also engenders life-threatening situations. Heavy rains each year destroy property, disrupts infrastructure, and in some instances, claim hundreds of lives. In 2025, already there are reports of devastating impacts in northern Pakistan, where villages have been destroyed and families displaced by flash floods.
For tourists, nature enthusiasts, and trekkers, this closure is an indication that safety should always be the priority. The Margalla Hills trails are favorite year-round destinations, but it can be very risky to trek during volatile monsoon conditions.
Quick Facts – Islamabad Trail Closure
- Impacted Trails: Trail 2, Trail 3, Trail 4, Trail 5, and Saidpur trail
- Closure Dates: Through August 19, 2025
- Reason: Heavy rains, flash flood risk, and landslides
- Agencies Included: Capital Development Authority (CDA), District Magistrate, Capital Police
- Public Advisory: Refrain from hiking, remain vigilant, keep an eye on Islamabad weather forecasts
Conclusion – Safety Over Adventure
Though adventure in the outdoors is a part of Islamabad culture, the temporary closure of Islamabad hiking trails is unavoidable. Islamabad monsoon climate is uncertain and risk-prone, and the safety of people matters more than skipping a weekend hike.
Citizens are requested to adhere to official instructions, respect the closure, and not engage in unsafe travel. After the rain warning expires and weather conditions level out, the Margalla Hills trails will be open once more for all to enjoy safely. Until that time, remaining aware and being safe is the best course of action.
