Severe fog blanketed large parts of Punjab, significantly reducing visibility and disrupting motorway traffic at multiple locations, prompting authorities to temporarily close key routes to ensure public safety.

According to the National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP), dense fog reduced visibility to 0–100 meters in several areas, leading to the closure of major motorway sections. Initially, Motorway M-2 was closed from Lahore to Kot Momin, M-3 from Faizpur to Jaranwala, and M-11 from Lahore to Sialkot due to hazardous driving conditions.

Traffic on Motorway M-4 between Pindi Bhattian and Faisalabad was also suspended, while the entry of heavy vehicles was restricted on M-3 from Faizpur to Darkhana and M-4 from Pindi Bhattian to Abdul Hakim. Authorities said these preventive measures were necessary as fog-related lane violations often lead to serious accidents.

The Motorway Police spokesperson explained that the closures were aimed at protecting lives and property, urging motorists to strictly follow lane discipline, avoid unnecessary travel, and prefer daytime journeys.

Foggy conditions were also reported on national highways, including Lahore, Manga Mandi, Phool Nagar, Pattoki, Renala Khurd, Okara, Sahiwal, Iqbal Nagar, Kasowal, and Mian Channu, where visibility remained critically low.

Also Read: Dense fog travel advisory: Essential safety tips for commuters

Later, as fog intensity eased and visibility improved, the NHMP reopened several motorway sections in the central region. According to Central Region spokesperson Syed Imran Ahmed, traffic was restored on M-2, M-3, and M-11 once conditions became safer for travel.

Despite the reopening, authorities warned that fog is likely to return during late-night and early-morning hours. Motorists were advised to travel preferably between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm, which is considered the safest window during foggy conditions.

Motorway Police Safety Advisory

The NHMP has issued strict safety guidelines for motorists:

• Reduce speed and drive cautiously
• Use fog lights and low-beam headlights
• Maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead
• Avoid sudden lane changes and abrupt braking
• Follow lane discipline at all times
• Avoid unnecessary travel, especially at night and early morning
• Use alternative routes such as GT Road where feasible

Authorities emphasized that fog conditions can deteriorate suddenly during winter, and additional closures may be imposed if visibility drops again on high-speed routes connecting major cities.

Motorists seeking real-time updates, route guidance, or emergency assistance have been advised to contact the Motorway Police helpline at 130. Officials reiterated that public cooperation remains crucial to ensuring road safety during the ongoing winter fog season.