Dense fog forces closure of two motorway sections in Punjab

LAHORE (Dunya News) - Dense fog has led to the closure of two major sections of the motorway in Punjab, with authorities urging commuters to travel only during daylight hours for safety.

According to the Motorway Police spokesperson, the M-5 from Multan Shershah Interchange to Zahir Pir has been closed for all types of traffic. Meanwhile, on the M-1, the stretch from Peshawar to Rashakai also remains shut due to near-zero visibility. However, as conditions improved, the section from Rashakai to Burhan, and further towards Islamabad, has been reopened for traffic.

Motorway Police spokesperson Syed Imran Ahmed said the closures were necessary to protect lives and property amid hazardous weather conditions. Fog has also been reported along the National Highway, particularly in Basti Malook, Lodhran and Bahawalpur, where visibility remains extremely poor.

Authorities have warned that lane violations during fog can lead to serious accidents, urging drivers to strictly follow lane discipline. Motorists have been advised to use fog lights, reduce speed, and maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead.

Citizens planning to travel have been instructed to prefer daytime journeys. The Motorway Police has defined safe travel timings between 10:00am and 6:00pm, when visibility is relatively better.

The police further advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel and contact the Motorway helpline 130 for guidance or assistance during fog-related disruptions.

Motorway Police said that monitoring teams are deployed on major routes to ensure safety and manage traffic flow as weather conditions evolve.