Authorities have temporarily closed the Murree Expressway to all non-essential traffic following severe snowfall, officials confirmed on Thursday.
The closure applies to the section from Phulgara Toll Plaza to Murree due to heavy snow that has made travel unsafe. However, residents can still access Murree via the N-75 highway, which remains open for traffic.
In an advisory shared on social media, the National Highway and Motorway Police urged tourists and non-residents to avoid travelling to Murree unless necessary. Officials stressed that unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions could put lives at risk.
A westerly wave is affecting western/upper and central parts of Pakistan, which may persist in upper parts till January 1, 2026.#PMD #PMDweather #PMDUpdate #weather #WeatherAlert #WeatherUpdate #PakistanWeather #rain #RainAlert #StaySafeStayPrepared #snowfall #northernareas pic.twitter.com/a5PSHbkYfI
— Pak Met Department محکمہ موسمیات (@pmdgov) January 1, 2026Meanwhile, teams from the NHMP and the National Highway Authority are working continuously to clear accumulated snow. Heavy-duty machinery has been deployed to restore normal traffic flow on the expressway as quickly and safely as possible.
Authorities reiterated that public safety remains the top priority. Motorists travelling in snow-affected areas have been advised to exercise extreme caution, strictly follow traffic instructions, and avoid speeding.
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Drivers have also been urged to carry tyre chains, keep fuel tanks full, and ensure their vehicles are in proper condition before setting out.
According to weather forecasts, rain and snowfall are expected to continue in Murree and the nearby Galiyat region until early January. As a result, officials have maintained heightened alertness and ongoing snow removal operations to manage the situation effectively.
