Murree Declares Snow Emergency for Winter Season

RAWALPINDI: The snowfall season in Murree officially began as local authorities declared a snow emergency across the district. The emergency, effective from December 2 to March 15, 2025, has triggered the activation of 19 emergency check posts along major routes to ensure safety and smooth operations during the winter months.

Enhanced Monitoring and Traffic Management

In anticipation of the tourist influx, strict monitoring and traffic control systems have been set up. Key check posts at Islamabad Toll Plaza and GT Road Toll Plaza will regulate vehicle limits. To further enhance security, an additional 100 Civil Defence personnel have been deployed to Murree.

Rawalpindi Commissioner Aamir Khattak has instructed all authorities to complete safety and security preparations by December 10, ahead of the busy tourist season, which begins December 24.

Round-the-Clock Emergency Services

To ensure 24/7 emergency assistance, officers from 22 institutions will staff the emergency posts in three shifts. Snow-clearing vehicles, equipped with three drivers each, have been deployed for uninterrupted operations, and large quantities of salt have been distributed to prevent icy road conditions.

Tourist-Friendly Measures

The administration has implemented strict regulations to improve the tourist experience:

• Hotel, motel, and guesthouse rates have been categorized, with overcharging punishable by the closure of violators' establishments.
• Set prices for food and recreational activities will be strictly enforced to protect tourists from exploitation.

In addition, 19 facility centers will be established at key tourist locations such as GPO Chowk, Mall Road, and Kashmir Point, providing round-the-clock assistance and amenities like raincoats, umbrellas, walking sticks, and heaters for staff.

Vehicle Capacity and Safety Protocols

Once Murree reaches its vehicle capacity, excess vehicles will be diverted from GT Road and Motorway toll plazas. To ensure smooth traffic flow, an additional 50 traffic officers have been dispatched to the area.

Coordination and Preparedness

The administration is coordinating closely with the National Highway Authority, Punjab Disaster Management Authority, and the Environment Department. The Meteorological Department will provide hourly weather updates, ensuring real-time decision-making.

This comprehensive plan aims to safeguard both tourists and residents and ensure a memorable winter season in Murree.