NHMP closes key motorway routes due to dense fog in Punjab

LAHORE: In a clear sign of winter’s impact on Punjab, dense fog has covered key roadways, leading the National Highway and Motorway Police (NHMP) to enforce closures from Sher Shah to Shamkot, Abdul Hakeem to Pindi Bhattian, and other commonly used routes.

As of the night of December 28th, the fog has significantly reduced visibility, prompting strategic road closures.

Motorists in the affected regions are facing disruptions as fog-induced closures tighten their grip on the road network.

The primary areas experiencing adverse effects include Sher Shah to Shamkot, Abdul Hakeem to Pindi Bhattiyan, and Thokar Niaz Baig to Kot Momin.

These closures, attributed to persistent fog, are a precautionary measure to ensure commuter safety.

Notably, the Islamabad main toll plaza has become a focal point for closures, affecting both north and southbound lanes.

A critical section from Kot Momin to Lillah is closed for heavy-duty vehicles (HTVs), adding challenges for freight transport.

The situation intensifies along the stretch from Faizpur to Rajana Interchange, where both north and southbound lanes are closed.

An important development is the redirection of northbound traffic from Rajhana, guiding vehicles to alternative routes.

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Meanwhile, visibility concerns persist across various segments, with fog drastically reducing sight range. From Kassowal Bridge to Musafir Khana, drivers are grappling with visibility as low as 50–100 metres.

The same challenge applies to the stretch from Kharian Cantt to Chak Akka, where visibility drops to 50–60 metres.

In a particularly challenging scenario, the stretch from Jinnah Terminal Beat-12 to Sanpal Chowk Beat-16 witnesses extreme conditions, with visibility fluctuating between 20 and 100 metres.

Similarly, the route from PS Kamoke to Kala Shah Kaku reports visibility as low as 10–50 metres, emphasising the need for utmost caution.

As commuters navigate these weather-induced challenges, authorities stress strict adherence to closure guidelines, urging individuals to prioritise safety over expediency.

It remains critical for travellers to stay updated on real-time road conditions and exercise patience in the face of unforeseen challenges posed by nature’s wintry grip on the region’s transportation arteries.