MURREE (Kashmir English): As the Murree weather turns severe after snowfall, the authorities have temporarily closed the Murree Expressway for all non-essential traffic.
The National Highway and Motorway Police (NHMP) said that the traffic will remain blocked from the Phulgran Toll Plaza to Murree; however, the road will remain open for local residents and emergency vehicles.
The authorities have urged visitors to avoid traveling to Murree unless necessary and assured that they are working to clear the snow and restore traffic flow.
The closure comes as many tourists have flocked to popular winter destinations, including Murree, Galyat, Nathia Gali, and Thandiani, following the first snowfall of the season.
Travelers are also being urged to equip their vehicles with tire chains, keep fuel tanks full, and follow the directions of traffic officers.
Murree weather forecast
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted rain and snowfall in Murree and other adjoining hill stations of Galyat and Nathiagali from December 30, which is expected to continue until January 2 in these areas.
Earlier in its weather advisory, the Met Office warned of possible rain and snowfall over the next two to three days, as a western weather system entered the country on December 30.
According to the advisory, the weather system is expected to intensify tomorrow, with rain forecasted for the upper and central parts of Islamabad and its surroundings. Snowfall is expected in Naran, Kaghan, Swat, Dir, Murree, Galyat, and Skardu, with fears of road closures due to heavy snowfall.
