Dense fog shuts major motorways in Punjab, KP as visibility drops

Dense fog shuts major motorways in Punjab, KP as visibility drops

January, 15 2026

(Web Desk): Dense fog disrupted road travel across Punjab and KP overnight, forcing closure of multiple motorway sections as authorities issued safety warnings for public.

Dense fog once again engulfed large parts of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, severely affecting visibility and forcing authorities to shut down several key motorway sections to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.

According to the Motorway Police spokesperson, the following motorway sections were closed for all types of traffic due to hazardous driving conditions:

M1 from Peshawar to Rashakai
M2 from Thokar Niaz Baig to Chakri
M3 from Faizpur to Darkhana
M4 from Pindi Bhattian to Abdul Hakim
M11 from Lahore to Sambrial

Officials stated that the closures were necessary to protect lives and property as dense fog reduced visibility to dangerously low levels in several areas.

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

Motorway Police Issue Strict Safety Advisory

The National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) warned that fog-related lane violations and speeding significantly increase the risk of fatal accidents. Motorists were urged to strictly follow lane discipline and avoid unnecessary travel, particularly during late-night and early-morning hours when fog intensifies.

Authorities advised travelers to plan journeys carefully and prefer daytime travel between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm, when visibility conditions are relatively improved.

Key Safety Guidelines for Motorists

The Motorway Police issued the following safety instructions for foggy conditions:

Reduce speed and drive cautiously
Use fog lights and low-beam headlights
Maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead
Avoid sudden braking and lane changes
Strictly follow lane discipline
Avoid unnecessary travel, especially at night

Commuters were also encouraged to use alternative routes such as the GT Road where possible.

Also Read: Met office forecasts cold, foggy conditions for next 24 hours

Monitoring Continues as Fog Expected to Return

Authorities cautioned that fog is expected to persist and may return during late-night and early-morning hours in the coming days. Monitoring teams have been deployed on major routes to manage traffic flow and respond quickly to changing weather conditions.

Citizens were advised to stay updated through official advisories and contact the Motorway Police helpline 130 for real-time traffic updates, route guidance, or emergency assistance.

Officials reiterated that public cooperation is essential to ensure road safety during the ongoing winter fog season, warning that additional motorway closures may be imposed if visibility deteriorates further.