Poor visibility caused by winter fog significantly increases the risk of road mishaps, particularly during early morning and late-night hours, making strict adherence to fog travel safety measures essential for motorists across Pakistan.
Dense Fog Disrupts Traffic Across Highways and Motorways
Dense fog has repeatedly disrupted traffic flow on motorways, highways, and urban roads, prompting authorities to issue travel advisories for commuters. Road safety experts warn that ignoring fog-related precautions can lead to chain collisions, vehicle breakdowns, and fatal accidents, especially on high-speed routes and intercity roads.
Why foggy weather is dangerous for commuters
Fog reduces visibility to a few meters, making it difficult for drivers to judge distances, spot obstacles, or react in time. Slippery roads, sudden braking, and speeding further worsen the situation. Commuters travelling long distances during foggy weather are especially vulnerable on motorways and intercity routes.
Safety measures for travelling during dense fog
Commuters are strongly advised to follow these fog safety measures to ensure safer travel:
- Reduce speed: Drive slowly and steadily to maintain control of the vehicle.
- Use fog lights and low-beam headlights: High beams reflect off fog and reduce visibility.
- Maintain safe distance: Keep extra space between vehicles to avoid rear-end collisions.
- Avoid sudden lane changes: Stick to your lane and follow road markings carefully.
- Use indicators early: Signal well in advance when turning or changing lanes.
- Follow official advisories: Check motorway and weather updates before starting your journey.
Also Read: Smog, fog expected to intensify across Pakistan in coming days
Travel must-haves during foggy weather
Commuters should ensure their vehicles are equipped with essential travel must-haves during fog:
- Functional fog lights and headlights
- Clean windshield and working wipers
- Reflective warning triangle
- Fully charged mobile phone
- Emergency kit including first aid, flashlight, and warm clothing
- Updated navigation or GPS system
Motorway Police helpline and official travel advisory
Motorway authorities have urged commuters to stay updated with official advisories and to contact the Motorway Police helpline 130 for real-time guidance, route updates, or emergency assistance. Officials emphasized that timely information can help drivers make safer travel decisions amid reduced visibility.
When to avoid travelling
Drivers have been strongly advised to avoid unnecessary travel during dense fog conditions. If travel is unavoidable, commuters are encouraged to prefer daytime hours, as 10:00 am to 6:00 pm is generally considered safer when fog intensity typically decreases. In case visibility drops sharply, motorists should safely pull over at designated rest areas instead of stopping on the roadside.
Final advice for commuters
Road safety officials stress that patience, alertness, and responsible driving behavior are key to preventing fog-related accidents. Authorities emphasized that public cooperation is essential until weather conditions improve and full motorway operations can safely resume, reminding commuters that reaching late is far better than risking lives.
