Murree ready for snowfall season with strict safety measures

Murree is preparing for its snowfall season, which runs from December 15 to February 25, with a comprehensive new snow safety plan designed to prevent a repeat of past tragedies.

The move comes in the shadow of the worst snowfall disaster in three decades. On January 7, 2022, heavy snow trapped tourists in their vehicles, claiming 23 lives, including eight members of one family. Investigations revealed that carbon monoxide poisoning caused the deaths after snow blocked vehicle exhausts, highlighting the lack of adequate rescue facilities at the time.

This year, authorities are taking no chances. Rawalpindi Commissioner Aamir Khattak and the Regional Police Officer will personally oversee operations, while snow-clearing efforts have been significantly ramped up.

A total of 20 snow-clearing vehicles will operate around the clock in three shifts, each staffed with two workers. Large supplies of salt and other chemicals have been dispatched to help keep roads clear.

Nineteen tourist facilitation centres will be opened from December 15, offering assistance and guidance to visitors. Parking restrictions are stricter than ever. Vehicles are banned on all roads leading to Murree, including Mall Road and local bazaars, with illegal vehicles subject to sealing. Parking will only be allowed in designated commercial areas.

Security and rescue personnel will be on high alert throughout the season. A military contingent, NDMA teams, Rescue 1122, additional police, traffic wardens, and Civil Defence staff will be deployed across the area.

Families visiting Murree can expect uniform heater rental rates at hotels, fixed pricing for food, horse riding, chairlifts, and other recreational activities. Authorities have warned that overcharging will be met with legal action.

To safeguard tourists, specially trained Civil Defence personnel equipped with electric shock batons will help manage disputes and maintain order in crowded areas. Vehicle entry from the motorway and GT Road will be closely monitored, and limits on the number of incoming vehicles will be strictly enforced. Residents of Murree with local ID cards will have unrestricted access.

The deputy commissioner has urged tourists to prepare carefully. Essentials like drinking water, juices, dried fruits, milk, snow chains, warm clothing, and blankets should be carried. Gas heaters inside vehicles should be avoided or used sparingly to prevent any risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

With these measures in place, authorities hope this winter will be safer and more enjoyable for all visitors while ensuring that Murree remains a welcoming and well-managed winter destination.