Murree’s long wait for snow nears end

After a year-long wait, Murree and its surrounding hill stations have finally received the season's first snowfall forecast.

Subsequently, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has ordered precautionary measures in anticipation of heavy snowfall.

According to the forecast, snowfall is expected to commence on Tuesday morning.

The weather in Murree, Galyat, and nearby regions is predicted to turn cold, with temperatures dropping further following rain and snowfall.

A spokesperson from PDMA, in response to a query about the tragic events of January 2022, said authorities are diligently working to prevent any untoward situation.

On January 7, 2022, 22 lives were lost due to a snowstorm that left many stranded on the roads in Murree.

Read Govt issues travel advisory ahead of snowfall in Murree

The disaster was attributed to the negligence of local authorities who allowed an excessive number of vehicles into Murree which surpassed its maximum capacity of 4,000 vehicles.

To mitigate such risks, the spokesperson noted that the administration of Murree has taken proactive measures. “Last week, three facilitation centres for tourists were set up, and this number has now been increased to 13. The focus is on ensuring the safety of visitors, particularly those arriving in their cars,” said the spokesperson.

He further said authorities are keen to avoid a repetition of past mistakes. He also emphasised the importance of responsible management and adherence to capacity limits to ensure the safety of both tourists and residents in the picturesque hill station.

Meanwhile, travellers, accompanied by families primarily arriving from various districts of central Punjab and northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, were observed in significant numbers in the valleys of Kalam, Madain, Bahrain, and Malam Jabba in Upper Swat.

This occurred amidst light to moderate rains and snowfall, resulting in a notable drop in temperatures.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 7^th, 2024.