Workers push a stranded car along a snow-covered road in Abbottabad after the region received its first snowfall of the season. Photo: PPI
ABBOTTABAD:
A fresh spell of snowfall, accompanied by intermittent rain, blanketed Murree, Abbottabad and the Galiyat region on early Tuesday, bringing a sharp drop in temperatures and prompting authorities to issue travel advisories, while assuring tourists of preparedness and road clearance operations.
In Murree, up to four inches of snow was recorded by late night, with light snowfall later turning into intermittent rain.
Murree District Police Officer (DPO) Dr Mohammad Raza Tanveer Sapra said that all roads in the hill resort remained open and traffic was flowing normally.
He added that temperatures had fallen to around 3°C, but no routes were blocked and there were no reports of vehicles being stranded.
The administration and traffic police responded swiftly to clear roads and ensure smooth movement.
Tourists were advised to remain cautious due to fog and slippery conditions, use fog lights, avoid speeding and overtaking, and maintain a safe distance between vehicles. Emergency assistance remains available through helpline 15 and the traffic police.
Meanwhile, a second spell of snowfall coupled with continuous rain in Thandiyani, Nathiagali, Ayubia and other hilly areas of the Galiyat pushed temperatures below freezing point.
Snow accumulation of six to nine inches was reported in upper areas, leading the district administration to deploy heavy machinery from the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Highway Authority, the Galiyat Development Authority and the Communication and Works Department to clear snow and restore road access.
As a precautionary measure, the Abbottabad–Murree road via Nathiagali was closed to all traffic after 5pm, while the Abbottabad–Nathiagali road remains open.
The Barian–Nathiagali road has also been closed at Tohidabad and nearby areas due to the risk of landslides and avalanches.
Road rehabilitation work is ongoing under the supervision of the Abbottabad administration, with the Additional Assistant Commissioner present in the area to oversee operations.
Residents and tourists have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel and strictly follow safety guidelines.
In case of emergency, citizens may contact the District Control Room Abbottabad on 0992-9310553 or the Galiyat Development Authority Control Room in Nathiagali.
