Plans have been implemented in Murree – the popular hill resort – to enhance the tourist cities’ security and traffic situation among the increasing number of visitors during snowy winters.
A large number of tourists are expected to arrive in Murree on the occasion of New Year’s night. Authorities were directed to provide all possible facilities to visitors during this tourist season. The Murree administration was directed to draw up a plan which should implemented without any delays.
Additionally, the administration has set up centres to facilitate tourists at 13 different locations, which include Satara Meel, Lower Topa, Jika Gali, GPO, Kashmir Point, Kuldana, Kali Matti, Masiyari, Sindhan, Sunny Bank, Bhurban, Thanda Jungle and Saharbagla.
Under the Murree Contingency Plan, an additional 140 traffic police personnel have been deployed in the valley. The biggest problem in Murree is traffic jams, which is why the presence of adequate police and traffic wardens is important. A consultant has also been hired for the Murree parking plaza project who will be visiting the site soon and helping solve the city’s parking problems.
Additionally, the Murree Traffic Police has acquired the FM 88.6 frequency, along with a website that is soon to be activated, these channels will serve as helpful for the guidance and awareness of tourists.
Read Implementation of Murree Contingency Plan urged
The website will help update tourists regarding traffic conditions at various intersections, the weather, hotels and other necessary information before they plan their trip to Murree.
Moreover, officials of concerned departments were ordered to remain at their posts to ensure the implementation of the plan. The commissioner also gave directives for the appointment of a separate DPO for the Murree district.
To facilitate tourists, 13 Screen Mounting Devices have also been made functional within the city with flashing public service messages displayed. Additionally, information boards, warning signs and up-to-date status are being displayed at various places for the convenience of tourists. A 24/7 helpline has also been arranged by the Tourism Department to update tourists about weather and traffic conditions as well as to guide them.
Vehicles entering the city are being monitored through a digital counter at the 17 Mile Toll Plaza. Moreover, 26 CCTV cameras have also been installed on all main roads to monitor the traffic situation.
Read Plan afoot to keep Murree roads snow-free
According to Murree Deputy Commissioner, Agha Zaheer Abbas Shirazi, all the departments have been put on high alert given the snowfall forecast.
Traffic plan
Meanwhile, the city administration has deployed precisely 163 traffic wardens and traffic police officers at important checkpoints to regulate the traffic and facilitate the tourists. The Traffic police also devised a comprehensive plan for the snowfall season, according to which entry of heavy vehicles into the city will be banned.
An emergency helpline, 051-9269200, has also been introduced for the guidance of tourists. Citizens can call the helpline with any complaints or questions they have round the clock. The helpline centre is also serving as a control room from where all tourist facilities are being operated and monitored to avoid any mishaps.
Several points have also been reserved for car parking. Different main roads including Kashmir Point, Mall Road, Guldana Road and other roads have been closed off for two-way traffic.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 1st, 2024
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