Dense fog disrupts life across Punjab and Sindh

ISLAMABAD: Severe fog blanketed vast regions of Central and Southern Punjab, as well as Sindh, on Friday morning, severely disrupting daily life and road transport. Major motorways were forced to close due to near-zero visibility, while several road accidents were reported in affected districts. Capital city Islamabad also witnessed a dense fog across various sectors.

Highway Closures and Advisory

The National Highways and Motorway Police (NH&MP) Central Region spokesperson announced the closure of two key arteries: the M-4 Motorway (Khanewal-Multan section) and the M-5 Motorway (Multan-Rohri section), as a precautionary measure to protect public life and property. The closures were part of a broader safety response as thick fog also engulfed the areas of Ahmedpur East, Tandlianwala, Iqbal Nagar, Rahim Yar Khan, and Sadiqabad.

Authorities urged road users to strictly adhere to lane discipline, avoid unnecessary travel, and drive with extreme caution. “Lane violations in such fog can lead to major accidents,” the spokesperson warned. For those who must travel, the safest window was advised between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Drivers were instructed to use fog lights, maintain slow speeds, and keep a safe distance from vehicles ahead. For assistance, the public was advised to contact helpline 130.

Partial Re-opening and Widespread Disruption

As visibility improved slightly later in the morning, the M-4 Motorway (Multan-Khanewal) was reopened for traffic, according to an update from the Central Region spokesperson. However, severe conditions persisted in numerous other areas.

In Dera Ghazi Khan, intense fog brought city life and traffic on major roads, including the Multan and Taunsa routes, to a near standstill. The Traffic Police warned of a high risk of accidents and appealed to citizens to avoid non-essential travel. Similarly, Nawabshah’s Qazi Ahmed tehsil and surrounding areas, Mirpurkhas and its adjoining regions, and Naushahro Feroze district reported dense fog, with visibility on the M-9 Motorway reportedly reduced to just ten meters, severely hampering traffic on the National Highway and Indus Highway.

Accident Reported in Tando Allahyar

The hazardous conditions led to a serious accident in Tando Allahyar. Late Thursday night, a van collided with a stationary, sugarcane-laden trolley near Machhi Hotel. Reports indicate the trolley was parked on the main road after a tire burst. Over ten people were injured in the crash, with five critically wounded individuals transferred to Hyderabad Civil Hospital for treatment.

Safety Remains Paramount

With cold intensity also increasing due to the fog, authorities across all affected regions continue to stress caution. The Motorway Police, Traffic Police, and local administrations unanimously advise citizens to limit travel, follow safety instructions meticulously, and stay updated on road conditions until the fog clears.

Web Desk