Murree Expressway has been closed for traffic after heavy snowfall. Learn which routes are affected, new safety rules, and how tourists should plan winter trips to the hill station.
Murree Expressway Shut After Fresh Snowfall
The district administration has closed the Murree Expressway for general traffic after heavy snowfall, as a safety measure for visitors heading towards the hill station. According to an alert issued by the National Highway and Motorway Police, the restriction applies to the stretch from Phulgara Toll Plaza up to Murree. Vehicles are not being allowed to proceed towards the main tourist areas through this route until conditions improve.
Officials have stressed that the decision is temporary and based on road safety. Snow and ice on steep and winding roads can quickly create dangerous driving conditions, especially for drivers who are not experienced in winter terrain. By blocking non-essential traffic on the Expressway, the administration aims to prevent accidents, traffic jams and stranded vehicles.
Traffic Diversions And Road Restrictions
While the Expressway is closed for tourists and general traffic, the N-75 highway remains open for local residents and emergency services. This ensures that people living in the area, as well as ambulances and rescue vehicles, can still move in and out of Murree when required.
Authorities have strongly advised the public to avoid non-essential travel to Murree until the weather becomes more stable. Families planning leisure trips, picnics or overnight stays have been urged to postpone their plans rather than risk getting stuck in long queues or slippery sections of the road.
Motorists who still attempt to travel without checking official advisories may face long delays at checkpoints or be turned back altogether. Travellers are therefore encouraged to monitor updates from the district administration, Motorway Police and local media before setting out.
New Winter Traffic Rules and Safety Plan
The district administration and the traffic police of Murree have been planning a special traffic plan in view of the upcoming rush in the New Year and winter holidays. On New Year night, traffic warden leaves were cancelled and more staff was deployed in strategic points to handle the congestion, direct visitors and react to emergencies faster.
In addition to the holiday season, the government has placed broader weather and travel warnings. It is predicted that rain and snow would still be experienced in Murree and the Galiyat region into early January. To this, the authorities have already advised the tourists to carry chains on their vehicles, to always carry full tanks of fuel and abide by the instructions of the traffic officers at all costs.
These are aimed at striking a balance between tourism and safety of people. The idea is to make Murree accessible where feasible with no incidences of unprepared vehicles causing roads to be blocked or cause dangerous bottlenecks during snowfalls.
How Tourists Should Prepare for Snow Travel
People who are yet to go to Murree later in the season should ensure they are prepared well. Before travelling, travellers must always inform themselves on the most up to date weather forecast and road conditions. In case the Expressway or other major routes are blocked then one should simply postpone the journey instead of risking on the sideways or unauthorized routes.
When it comes to travelling with children or the elderly family members, it is recommended that the tourists carry warm clothes, emergency snacks, water and simple medical equipments. The cars must be well-maintained, and the brakes, lights, and wipers should be functional. In snowy conditions, it will be beneficial to use tyre chains and drive slowly with low gears to stay in control with the ice slopes.
To get charge batteries on a phone and to share with your relatives the route you are going and when to expect you is also a prudent thing to do. Whenever there is an issue, the drivers are advised to call the highway/traffic helplines rather than attempting to make dangerous manoeuvres.
Why Following Advisories in Murree Matters
Murree has continued to be among the most favorable hill stations in Pakistan and during winter seasons, it is crowded with families who come to have fun in the snow. Nevertheless, it is that snow that appeals to tourists and turns the roads dangerous within a short period of time and endangers the lives in case the fundamental safety regulations are not followed.
During the past seasons, the officials have frequently cautioned the travellers against disobeying traffic rules, overloading cars and the need to carry necessary equipment during snow and rain. The recent Murree Expressway closure is yet another eye-opener that one must remember that safety should come first and then leisure. This is possible by observing roadblocks, notices and speed limits to ensure that their visits are remembered due to the right things to do.
With the winter weather still prevailing and influencing the condition of the roads, residents and the tourists have their part to play. By remaining updated, thinking intelligently and collaborating with the authorities, everyone will find it easy to enjoy the beauty of Murree without any unnecessary exposure.
