MURREE: The year’s first snowfall blanketed Murree on Monday turning the valley and its surrounding areas serene.

The Met Office has predicted more snowfall in the next 24 hours while about seven inches has already fallen.

Snow clearing machinery and salt vehicles were seen parked at all major intersections by the town administration, City Traffic Police and highway mechanical department. Special measures have been taken by traffic officials to maintain flow of vehicles.

Tourists in large numbers from all parts of the country are driving towards Murree to enjoy the breathtaking view of the valley. Bustling crowds were seen in restaurants, markets and hotels following which the traffic police issued instructions for tourists during snowfall for smooth functioning of traffic.

DSP Traffic Raja Saeed Akhtar in his message said additional personnel of traffic police had been deployed in Murree to facilitate tourists. To avoid slipping during snowfall, tourists should drive with a chain on tires, strictly follow traffic rules while driving, check their vehicles thoroughly and keep the vehicle’s fuel tank full.

Warm clothing and dried fruits must also be carried while driving, double lanes should be avoided along with parking on highways to avoid traffic congestion, he said, adding that in case of a traffic related problem, call 051-9269200.

Meanwhile, tourists and locals are facing severe problems due to frequent power outages, according to traders and hoteliers of the town. For months, the power supply was cut off from 9am till 4pm due to annual repairs and pruning, which causes problems for both tourists and hoteliers. In rural areas, power supply remains suspended for weeks during snow season adding to the problems of the local population.

Published in Dawn, January 6th, 2021