Murree experiences heaviest snowfall in two decades, disrupting travel and daily life

Murree is facing an unprecedented snowstorm, with snowfall levels breaking a 20-year record and accumulating up to five feet in some areas, causing severe disruptions to daily life and mobility. The heavy snow has stranded thousands of vehicles across the town, prompting a large-scale rescue operation to safely evacuate around 5,000 cars. Police, traffic authorities, and rescue teams are actively working with heavy machinery to clear roads, remove bottlenecks, and restore access to affected areas.

To improve road safety, salt is being spread along key routes to reduce skidding risks, and authorities are reopening roads in phases depending on snowfall intensity and visibility. Due to the hazardous conditions, a ban has been imposed on tourist travel to Murree. Officials have warned that congested roads, combined with icy surfaces and low visibility, pose significant safety risks. Efforts are underway to facilitate the safe return of visitors already in the area as roads become passable. Earlier alerts and precautionary measures reportedly helped limit incoming tourists, with around 10,000 visitors present in peak areas like Murree GPO and nearby localities.

The snowstorm has also disrupted essential services. Peripheral areas of Murree are facing electricity outages, and internet services have been partially suspended, adding to the hardships for residents. Routine activities have slowed, and movement remains extremely limited. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned that snowfall is expected to continue through the night, which may further complicate road clearance and the restoration of utilities. Authorities have urged the public to avoid traveling to Murree until conditions improve, stressing that teams are working continuously but the situation remains unpredictable.