Dense fog once again covered large parts of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on the night between Thursday and Friday, severely disrupting road traffic and forcing authorities to close several motorway sections due to extremely low visibility.
The fog heavily disrupted traffic in many cities across Punjab and KP. A Motorway Police spokesperson said authorities closed the M1 from Peshawar to Swabi, the M2 from Lahore to Kot Momin, the M3 from Faizpur to Darkhana, the M4 from Pindi Bhattian to Multan, the M5 from Multan to Zahir Pir, and the M11 from Lahore to Sambrial for all types of traffic.
The spokesperson said officials took the decision to protect lives and property amid dangerous weather conditions.
Authorities warned that lane violations during fog can cause serious accidents and urged drivers to strictly follow lane discipline. They advised motorists to use fog lights, slow down, and maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead.
Officials also urged citizens to plan daytime travel, saying visibility remains better between 10:00am and 6:00pm. The Motorway Police further advised people to avoid unnecessary travel and contact the motorway helpline 130 for guidance or assistance during fog-related disruptions.
Also Read, Pakistan weather forecast: PMD predicts rain, snowfall
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Thursday, a new spell of intermittent rain and snowfall is expected to begin in most parts of the country from the middle of the next week.
Pakistan weather forecast
The system is likely to enter the upper regions of the country on January 16. It is expected to continue until January 19.
The Met Office also said that a weak westerly weather system will enter the country.
This system is expected to intensify from January 20. From January 21, this system may affect most parts of Pakistan.
Between January 16 and 19, rain and snowfall are expected in Gilgit-Baltistan, including Diamer, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghanche, and Shigar.
