Dense fog shuts major motorways across Punjab

Dense fog shuts major motorways across Punjab

January, 20 2026

(Web Desk): Dense fog has forced the closure of several motorways across Punjab as visibility dropped to dangerous levels, prompting travel restrictions and safety advisory.

Dense fog continues to blanket large parts of Punjab, leading to the closure of multiple motorway sections and traffic diversions as visibility fell below safe driving limits, according to the National Highways & Motorway Police (NHMP).

The motorway authorities confirmed that key routes connecting Lahore, Islamabad, Faisalabad, Multan, Sialkot, and surrounding cities were either fully closed, partially shut, or operating under diversions due to hazardous weather conditions.

Motorways Closed Due to Fog

As of the latest NHMP updates on January 20, 2026, the following major routes were affected:

M-2 Motorway (Lahore to Kot Momin): Fully closed due to dense fog
M-3 Motorway (Faizpur to Samundri): Closed in both directions
M-4 Motorway (Pindi Bhattian to Abdul Hakeem): Sections closed and lanes restricted
M-11 Motorway (Lahore–Sialkot): Closed from Mehmood Booti to Sambrial Toll Plaza
M-5 Motorway (Sher Shah to Zahir Pir): Lane closures reported due to fog
Swat Expressway: Closed between Ismaila and Colonel Sher Khan Interchange

In addition, traffic diversions were enforced on M-2 South at Sheikhupura, Pindi Bhattian, Khanqah Dogran, and Kot Momin to manage congestion and prevent accidents.

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

Areas Facing Low Visibility

Motorway Police reported severely reduced visibility (100–200 meters) in multiple cities and regions, including:

Lahore
Pattoki
Okara
Sahiwal
Chichawatni
Mian Channu
Khanewal
Multan
Bahawalpur
Kala Shah Kaku

Fog conditions were also observed on GT Road (N-5) and adjoining highways, further affecting intercity travel.

Roads Still Open and Clear

Despite widespread fog, several routes remained open with clear conditions:

M-1 (Peshawar–Islamabad): Road and weather clear
M-14 (Hakla–D.I. Khan): Clear
N-5 Central and South Zones: Mostly clear from Lahore to Karachi
West Zone Routes (Balochistan): Clear including Hub–Uthal, Kalat–Quetta, and Gwadar corridors

Authorities urged travelers to confirm route status before departure as conditions can change rapidly.

Also Read: Rain, snow, and fog alert across Pakistan as cold wave hits North

Motorway Police Safety Advisory

The NHMP stressed that closures are imposed to protect lives and property and issued strict safety guidelines for motorists traveling during fog:

Travel preferably between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm
Avoid unnecessary travel at night and early morning
Use fog lights and low-beam headlights only
Maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead
Avoid speeding, sudden braking, and lane changes
Follow lane discipline and traffic signs

Motorists were also advised to use alternative routes such as GT Road where feasible.

Ongoing Monitoring and Helpline Support

Authorities warned that fog may re-intensify during late-night and early-morning hours amid the ongoing winter season. Additional closures or diversions may be imposed if visibility worsens.

Commuters are urged to stay updated through official advisories and contact the Motorway Police Helpline 130 for real-time traffic updates, route guidance, and emergency assistance.