Fog returns abruptly: Islamabad, Rawalpindi face visibility woes

ISLAMABAD: After a brief hiatus, fog made an unexpected return to various sectors of Islamabad around 3:30 am on Saturday, January 20, 2024.

The intensity of the fog further intensified around 5 a.m., affecting key sectors, including G6.

Reports also indicate widespread fog in Rawalpindi, encompassing areas such as Range Road, GT Road, Ayub National Park, Gulistan Colony, The Springs Apartment Homes, Gangal West, and the Islamabad Expressway.

Motorists have been facing significant challenges on the motorways, with reduced visibility leading to the closure of major routes for several consecutive days. The situation has prompted authorities to take precautionary measures.

Motorways closed due to poor visibility

In response to the adverse weather conditions, multiple sections of the country’s motorways have been temporarily closed.

The M1 motorway, connecting Islamabad to Peshawar, is closed for traffic, as confirmed by the Motorway Police. Similarly, the M2 motorway, from Chakri to Neela Dullah, and the M3 motorway, from Faizpur to Darkhana, are also temporarily shut down.

The M4 motorway, spanning from Shamkot to Abdul Hakeem, and the section from Abdul Hakeem to Pindi Bhattian are closed due to heavy traffic and poor visibility. Additionally, the M5 motorway, from Multan to Rohri, is inaccessible, as declared by the Motorway Police.

Authorities have redirected traffic on the Swat Motorway to Ismailia as a precautionary measure. The National Highway N5 is also affected by the fog, and drivers are urged to exercise caution, according to the Motorway Police.

In another development, the M14 motorway is closed from Daud Khel to Dera Ismail Khan, further adding to the disruptions in the region.

Motorway police are actively managing the situation and advising travellers to stay informed about the changing conditions.

As the fog persists, commuters are advised to exercise caution while navigating through fog-affected areas.

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