Web Desk: Heavy snowfall has brought life to a standstill in the hill resort of Murree, blocking roads, disrupting communications and forcing authorities to suspend tourist entry, officials said on Tuesday.
Snow has continued for more than 24 hours, piling up to nearly two feet in some areas and triggering a prolonged power outage.
As snowfall intensified, multiple access roads became impassable, leaving traffic severely disrupted. Authorities closed key routes, including the MIT Road in Jhika Gali, where several vehicles remain stranded.
Meanwhile, officials halted the entry of additional vehicles from Rawalpindi and Islamabad to prevent further congestion and ensure public safety.
Continuous snowfall has forced authorities to keep Murree closed to tourists. Officials said the decision aims to reduce risks as weather conditions continue to deteriorate.
Many tourists already in the area remain confined to their accommodations as road clearance operations face delays.
Rawalpindi Commissioner Engineer Aamir Khattak said heavy snowfall has made movement difficult across the region. However, he said district administration teams, police, Rescue 1122 and Pakistan Army personnel are actively engaged in relief operations.
He added that stranded tourists are being shifted to safer locations and urged visitors to avoid unnecessary travel.
Khattak said Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is personally monitoring the situation. Authorities warned that snowfall is expected to continue for another 24 hours, increasing the risk of further disruptions.
Officials have advised the public to remain cautious and follow official travel advisories.
