Murree Expressway Shut to All Traffic as Heavy Snowfall Paralyzes Travel, Authorities Issue Fresh Advisory

As winter tightened its grip on northern Pakistan, heavy snowfall once again brought life on the Islamabad–Murree Expressway (N-75) to a grinding halt.

Authorities have closed the road for all general traffic after snow accumulation made driving conditions extremely dangerous, triggering concerns over public safety and emergency response.

According to officials from the National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP), the main entry point at Phoolgaran Toll Plaza has been sealed for regular vehicles following instructions from the district administration.

The decision came after continuous snowfall reduced visibility, increased the risk of skidding, and caused ice to form on several stretches of the expressway.

While the closure has caused inconvenience for travelers and tourists, officials say the move was unavoidable. With Murree already witnessing intense winter activity, keeping the route open could have led to accidents, traffic jams, and emergency situations that would be difficult to manage under current weather conditions.

Why the Murree Expressway Was Closed

The Islamabad–Murree Expressway serves as the primary artery connecting the federal capital to one of Pakistan’s most popular hill stations.

During winter, especially after fresh snowfall, traffic volume rises sharply as tourists rush to experience snow-covered landscapes.

This time, however, the snowfall was heavier than usual.

Authorities reported that snow accumulation on the road surface, coupled with freezing temperatures, made traction nearly impossible for standard vehicles.

Foggy conditions further worsened visibility, particularly during early morning and nighttime hours. In such a scenario, even experienced drivers face difficulty navigating sharp turns and steep gradients along the route.

Officials monitoring the situation said snow-clearing operations were underway, but persistent snowfall limited the effectiveness of machinery. As a precautionary step, traffic was stopped before congestion or accidents could develop.

Who Is Allowed to Use the Road?

Despite the general closure, the expressway has not been completely sealed.

Authorities clarified that local residents, emergency vehicles, and essential services are still being allowed to pass through under strict monitoring.

Ambulances, supply vehicles, and government teams involved in snow clearance remain operational to ensure no community is cut off.

However, private vehicles, tourist buses, and non-essential traffic are being turned back at checkpoints, particularly at Phoolgaran Toll Plaza and surrounding control points.

Officials stressed that these exemptions are temporary and conditional. If weather conditions deteriorate further, even limited access could be suspended to prevent risks to life.

Weather Conditions in Murree and Surrounding Areas

The closure comes amid a broader spell of winter weather affecting the Potohar region and northern Punjab.

Murree, Galyat, and nearby hill areas have been experiencing repeated snow spells, with temperatures dipping well below freezing at night.

Weather outlooks issued earlier this month warned of extended snowfall episodes, especially during late evenings and early mornings.

Such conditions increase the likelihood of:

• Black ice formation on roads
• Sudden loss of vehicle control
• Road blockages due to stalled traffic
• Delays in emergency response

Authorities say these patterns are typical during peak winter but can become hazardous when snowfall intensity rises within a short period.

Impact on Tourists and Local Businesses

The road closure has had an immediate impact on tourism, which is both a blessing and a challenge for Murree during winter.

Many tourists planning weekend trips were forced to cancel or postpone their travel after receiving alerts from motorway police and district administration.

Hotels and guesthouses reported last-minute cancellations, while some travelers already en route had to return to Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

Local businesses, however, see this as a mixed situation.

On one hand, fewer tourists reduce congestion and pressure on limited civic facilities. On the other, extended closures can hurt seasonal earnings for shopkeepers, hotel staff, and service workers who rely heavily on winter tourism.

Residents say safety must come first, even if it means temporary economic losses.

Lessons from Past Snow Emergencies

The decision to close the Murree Expressway early reflects lessons learned from previous winters.

In past years, sudden snowstorms led to massive traffic jams, leaving thousands of vehicles stranded overnight. Shortages of fuel, food, and heating created serious humanitarian concerns and prompted strong public criticism.

Since then, authorities have adopted a more proactive approach. Early road closures, traffic control points, and public advisories are now used to prevent overcrowding and reduce the risk of emergencies spiraling out of control.

Officials believe that stopping traffic early, although inconvenient, helps avoid larger crises later.

Advisory for Travelers: What You Should Do

Authorities have issued a fresh travel advisory urging the public to exercise caution and patience.

Travelers are advised to:

• Avoid non-essential trips to Murree until conditions improve
• Keep vehicles winter-ready with snow chains, antifreeze, and proper tires
• Ensure fuel tanks are full before traveling in cold regions
• Carry warm clothing, blankets, food, and emergency supplies
• Follow official instructions shared by motorway police and district administration
• Avoid nighttime travel during snowfall

Officials also urged people to rely only on verified updates rather than social media rumors, which often exaggerate or misrepresent ground realities.

Snow Clearance and Monitoring Efforts

Government teams remain on high alert as snow clearance operations continue along the expressway and connecting roads.

Heavy machinery has been deployed to remove snow and apply salt where possible to reduce ice formation. Traffic police and rescue teams are stationed at key points to assist motorists and respond quickly in case of emergencies.

Authorities said the situation is being reviewed regularly. Once snowfall slows down and road conditions stabilize, phased reopening of traffic may be considered.

However, no timeline has been announced yet, as everything depends on weather behavior over the coming days.

Possible Further Closures Ahead

Weather patterns suggest that intermittent snowfall could continue in Murree and nearby areas throughout the season. This means travelers should be prepared for sudden closures, delays, and restrictions, especially during weekends and holidays.

Officials warned that reopening the road does not guarantee uninterrupted access. Temporary closures may be reimposed if snowfall resumes or temperatures drop sharply.

Travelers planning trips later in the season are encouraged to remain flexible and prioritize safety over schedules.

Public Response and Cooperation

Public reaction to the closure has been mixed but largely understanding.

Many residents and frequent travelers have welcomed the early decision, calling it a responsible move that puts lives before leisure. Others expressed frustration over disrupted plans but acknowledged the risks involved in traveling during severe weather.

Authorities have appealed for public cooperation, emphasizing that such measures are taken purely in the interest of safety.

Final Word

The closure of the Murree Expressway after heavy snowfall is a reminder of how quickly winter conditions can turn risky in hilly regions.

While the snow may paint a beautiful picture, it also brings serious challenges for infrastructure, emergency services, and travelers.

Until weather conditions improve, staying informed, patient, and cautious remains the best approach. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and further updates are expected as the winter spell unfolds.

For now, Murree remains wrapped in snow and under watch.