Murree: Authorities have issued a travel advisory following a forecast of a snowstorm in Murree, urging tourists and residents to avoid traveling at night due to safety concerns.
According to District Police Officer (DPO) Dr Raza Tanveer Sapra, heavy snowfall is expected from this evening until tomorrow evening. He warned that falling temperatures could cause a hard, glass-like layer of ice to form on roads, making driving extremely dangerous.
The DPO said that vehicle brakes do not function properly on snow-covered roads, and night-time travel could pose serious risks. He added that snow-clearing operations become highly difficult during darkness and dense fog.
Authorities have made it mandatory for vehicles entering Murree to be fitted with snow chains, without which entry will not be allowed.
Advising travelers, the DPO urged motorists to keep fuel tanks full before departure and ensure proper mechanical fitness of vehicles. He stressed checking brakes, wipers, heaters and defoggers before traveling. Drivers were advised to maintain low speeds and keep a minimum distance of 50 meters from other vehicles on snow-covered roads.
He further warned that when using heaters inside vehicles, windows should be slightly open to prevent oxygen deficiency, which could prove fatal. Motorists were also instructed to use fog lights and hazard lights during snowfall and fog.
The DPO advised against parking vehicles on highways or slopes, as it could obstruct snow-clearing machinery. He urged travelers to strictly follow police instructions at checkpoints and contact Police Helpline 15 immediately in case of emergencies or accidents.