Motorways Closed in Punjab Due to Dense Fog

Punjab has been engulfed in dense fog, significantly reducing visibility. As a result, motorways M1, M2, M3, M4, M5 and the Lahore-Sialkot Motorway have been closed for all types of traffic.

The temperature in Punjab dropped to 8°C on Sunday morning. Meanwhile, severe cold gripped the upper regions as temperatures dropped below the freezing point, creating bone-chilling conditions for residents and tourists alike.

Read More: Karachi Experiences Mild Fog in Cold, Dry Weather

According to Motorway Police spokesperson Syed Imran Ahmed, Motorway M2 (Lahore-Islamabad), M3 (Lahore-Abdul Hakeem), M4 (Pindi Bhattian-Multan), M5 (Multan-Rohri) and the Lahore-Sialkot Motorway have been shut down for public safety due to dense fog.

The spokesperson urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, emphasising the safer daylight hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. during foggy weather. He added that motorways are closed to ensure public safety and secure travel. Travellers needing information or assistance are advised to call the Motorway Police helpline at 130.

Dense fog has severely impacted visibility in Narowal and its surroundings. Traffic on key roads, including Muridke Road, New Lahore Road, and Sialkot Road, is moving at a snail’s pace. Yesterday’s rainfall has intensified the cold, with Sunday’s temperature dropping to 8°C. The Arifwala region and nearby areas are also heavily impacted by dense fog, with traffic flow severely affected. Despite the disruptions, agricultural experts have considered the ongoing foggy spell beneficial for wheat crops.

In Naran, the mercury dropped to a staggering -14 degrees Celsius, while Kaghan recorded a -13 degree Celcius. Shogran, though relatively warmer, still experienced a biting chill at  -2 degrees Celsius. The extreme cold froze the lake and waterfalls of Sakkinari Dam, adding surreal beauty to the region. Rivers and canals in the upper areas also turned to ice, further indicating the harsh winter atmosphere.

In Upper Dir and surrounding hilly areas, the dry cold wave continues. Tourist spots such as Lowari, Kishora and Lam Char have recorded temperatures as low as -7°C, while urban areas of Upper Dir have experienced -3°C. The dry cold has led to a surge in throat and chest-related illnesses.