The third spell of snowfall has begun in Murree and surrounding areas, with the Pakistan Meteorological Department forecasting that snowfall will continue until late tonight.
Authorities report that up to three feet of snow has already been recorded in Murree, severely disrupting normal life. Heavy snowfall has left tourists stranded, while local residents remain confined to their homes as roads remain blocked and mobility comes to a standstill.
The district administration has initiated emergency evacuation measures for stranded tourists. Rescue 1122, Traffic Police, and Civil Defense teams are actively engaged in relief and rescue operations. Snow clearance work is ongoing in Jhika Gali and adjacent areas.
In view of the worsening situation, entry of tourists into Murree has been completely banned, and vehicles are being diverted back from the Murree Expressway. The City Traffic Police Murree has issued a strict advisory urging citizens not to travel towards Murree during snowfall under any circumstances.
Chief Traffic Officer Murree, Imran Razzaq, is present in the field, personally supervising traffic arrangements. Meanwhile, the Rawalpindi Commissioner has directed the Deputy Commissioner Murree to ensure timely and effective measures to manage the crisis.
Separately, heavy snowfall in Tirah Valley has triggered a large-scale rescue operation in the remote areas of Khyber District. Acting on the directives of DG Rescue 1122, Tayyab Abdullah, rescue teams have been deployed in Tirah Valley, Painda Cheena, Dwatui, and Bagh Maidan.
According to Rescue 1122 officials, over 100 personnel and 23 vehicles are taking part in the operation. So far, 60 affected individuals have been safely rescued, while 25 snowbound vehicles have been cleared. Several critical locations, including border check posts and Painda Cheena, have been reopened.
Rescue and relief activities are continuing in Dwatui, Tan, and Bagh Maidan Bazaar, as teams remain on high alert amid ongoing severe weath
