Authorities deploy snow-clearing machinery, traffic police, and civil defence teams

Snowfall season officially declared

The snowfall security season in Murree has been officially declared and activated, with authorities rolling out extensive arrangements to manage the expected surge of tourists and ensure public safety during harsh winter conditions.

As part of the seasonal plan, 19 facilitation centres have been established along GT Road, motorway routes, and roads connecting Murree with Azad Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. These centres will operate round the clock, staffed by officers from all relevant departments working in shifts throughout the snowfall season.

What measures are being taken

To manage traffic and prevent congestion, authorities have increased the strength of traffic police and civil defence volunteers. Vehicle monitoring has also begun at all toll plazas and entry points leading into Murree, allowing officials to regulate inflow during peak snowfall periods.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department will issue snowfall and weather alerts every ten hours, enabling timely response and coordination among departments.

Why the alert has been issued

With winter vacations starting this week, officials expect a sharp rise in tourist arrivals. A major influx of visitors is anticipated from Friday, December 19, as families from across the country head to Murree to experience snowfall.

Past incidents during heavy snowfalls have highlighted the risks of overcrowding, traffic jams, and inadequate preparedness, prompting authorities to adopt stricter preventive measures this season.

How snow clearance will be managed

To ensure uninterrupted movement, 26 snow-removal vehicles have been deployed across Murree. Large quantities of salt and chemical agents have also been stocked to prevent ice formation on roads.

Each snow-clearing vehicle will operate round the clock during snowfall, with three trained personnel assigned to each unit to ensure rapid response.

Traffic restrictions and enforcement

Authorities have imposed a complete ban on roadside parking during snowfall. Vehicles found violating the ban will be impounded immediately to prevent traffic blockages and emergency access disruptions.

Strict enforcement will remain in place throughout the snowfall season.

Security arrangements in tourist areas

Enhanced security measures have been introduced in key tourist locations, including Mall Road, Pindi Point, Kashmir Point, GPO Chowk, and the main market areas. Women police personnel have also been deployed as part of the security plan.

Additionally, a baton-carrying volunteer force comprising local youth has been formed to prevent fights, scuffles, and disorder during peak tourist hours.

Authorities urge cooperation

Officials have urged tourists to follow traffic advisories, avoid unnecessary travel during heavy snowfall, and cooperate with law enforcement and rescue teams to ensure a safe and enjoyable winter season in Murree.