Murree is expected to receive heavy snowfall ranging from 12 to 20 inches over the next two days due to an active western weather system, prompting the Punjab government to issue an emergency alert and activate contingency measures.
🚨 Provincial Minister Reviews Emergency Arrangements
Punjab Minister for Communications Malik Sohaib Ahmed Bharth visited Murree to personally review preparedness and chaired a meeting of the district administration.
Officials briefed the minister on:
-
Expected snowfall and rainfall
-
Road clearance plans
-
Measures to tackle possible landslides
Authorities warned that snowfall could reach up to 20 inches, potentially affecting traffic flow and tourist movement.
🛣️ Key Roads Under Monitoring
The provincial minister directed officials to:
-
Identify sensitive highways and vulnerable points
-
Maintain continuous monitoring of vehicles entering Murree
-
Ensure rapid response teams are ready for emergencies
He also instructed departments to stay in close coordination with the Pakistan Meteorological Department for real-time weather updates.
🚜 Snow Clearance Machinery and Salt Camps Inspected
During his visit, Malik Sohaib Ahmed Bharth inspected:
-
Major roads across Murree
-
Salt storage camps
-
Tourist facilitation centers
-
Snow-clearing machinery of the mechanical wing
He stressed that all equipment must remain fully operational throughout the snowfall period.
🏨 Arrangements for Tourists and Locals
The minister stated that the Punjab government is fully prepared to facilitate both tourists and local residents during the expected snowstorm.
He emphasized close coordination among:
-
Highway Department
-
District Administration
-
Traffic Police
-
Rescue 1122
to avoid any untoward incidents.
🧂 Adequate Salt Supply, Centers Fully Functional
Officials confirmed that:
-
Large quantities of salt bags are available in storage
-
13 tourist facilitation centers in Murree are fully operational
Senior district officials, including the Deputy Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner, and officers from highways and mechanical departments, were also present.
