Murree gears up for harsh weather

Rescue 1122 warns tourists to avoid unnecessary travel

RAWALPINDI:

The Punjab Emergency Service Department (Rescue 1122) Murree has issued a special warning ahead of the winter season, urging citizens to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel owing to expected severe weather.

“In view of the winter season, rainfall and hail, all rescue stations and key points in Murree and Kotli Sattian will remain on full alert round the clock under our Emergency Core Plan,” a Rescue 1122 spokesperson said on Monday.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast rain, thunderstorms, high winds and snowfall in Murree, Galiyat, Attock District, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang and other upper areas as western winds enter the country’s northern regions on the night of November 3 and remain until November 5.

The spokesperson said personnel had been provided with rescue vehicles, ambulances and life-saving equipment, adding that camp-points staffed 24 hours a day had been established for public convenience.

He explained that the risk of accidents “rises because of snowfall, extreme cold and slippery terrain in the winter” and urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel, ensure their vehicles are fitted with snow chains and sufficient fuel, and call the Rescue helpline 1122 immediately in an emergency.