Fog Forces Closure of M4 Motorway Section to Heavy Traffic in Punjab

Dense fog has prompted authorities to close a section of the M4 motorway in Punjab to heavy traffic, with the restriction covering the route between Pindi Bhattian and Abdul Hakeem, according to a Motorway Police spokesperson for the Central Region.

The spokesperson said motorways are closed during severe fog to protect lives and property, and advised motorists to avoid unnecessary travel while visibility remains poor. For journeys that cannot be postponed, drivers were urged to travel during daylight hours, with the window between 10am and 6pm described as the safer option during the fog season.

Motorway Police also issued a set of driving guidelines for the conditions. Drivers were told to reduce their speed, keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, stay within their lanes and avoid unnecessary overtaking. Sudden braking should also be avoided, as it raises the risk of collisions when visibility is limited.

Before setting out, motorists were advised to switch on fog lights and confirm that headlights, rear lights and windscreen wipers are in working order. The measures are part of the force's seasonal road-safety campaign, which steps up during winter months when fog frequently disrupts intercity travel across the plains of Punjab.

Fog-related closures are a recurring feature of the winter season on Pakistan's motorway network, often forcing authorities to suspend traffic on sections of the M2, M3 and M4 corridors and leaving commuters and goods transporters to reschedule journeys. The latest restriction affects one of the busiest stretches of the M4, which links the Pindi Bhattian interchange with Abdul Hakeem in Punjab.

Motorists planning to use the affected route have been asked to check updates from Motorway Police before departure and to allow extra time for journeys while the fog persists.