Murree is experiencing severe, snowstorm snowfall that has broken a 20-year record. Snow accumulation in different parts of Murree has reportedly reached up to 5 feet, significantly disrupting mobility and daily life.
With thousands of vehicles stranded or stuck across the town, a rescue operation has been launched to safely evacuate around 5,000 vehicles from Murree. Authorities said police, rescue teams, and traffic personnel have been deployed at multiple points, supported by heavy machinery to clear roads and remove bottlenecks.
Salt is also being spread on key routes to reduce skidding risk, while officials say roads are being reopened in phases depending on snowfall intensity and visibility.
As the situation remains volatile, officials have imposed a ban on tourists traveling to Murree. Authorities have repeatedly warned that congestion combined with icy roads and low visibility can rapidly turn travel into a safety hazard. Visitors already in Murree who wish to return are being facilitated as routes become passable.
An earlier official alert and precautionary steps reportedly helped reduce the number of incoming tourists, with estimates suggesting around 10,000 visitors were present at peak periods across the Murree GPO area and nearby localities.
The snowfall has also affected essential services. Reports say life in many peripheral areas has been severely disrupted, with electricity fully cut off since last night in parts of Murree, while internet service has been partially suspended.
Residents in several areas have reported significant hardship as movement remains limited and routine activity has slowed to a halt.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has indicated that snowfall is expected to continue through the night, which could further complicate road clearance and restoration of services.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid travel to Murree, saying teams are working continuously but conditions remain unpredictable until the snow spell weakens.
