Dense and persistent fog disrupted traffic movement across Punjab on Monday, forcing authorities to partially close several key motorways. The National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) took the step to prevent accidents and protect commuters as visibility dropped to dangerously low levels in many areas.
The fog developed during the night and intensified in the early morning hours. It severely affected travel conditions on multiple intercity routes. Motorway police advised motorists to delay travel until visibility improved. Officials said driving in foggy conditions increases the risk of serious accidents, especially during early hours.
The situation remained challenging through the morning. Authorities continued to monitor weather conditions closely. Updates were shared regularly to guide road users.
Sections of M-2, M-3, M-4, M-5, and M-11 Closed
In an official post on social media platform X, the NHMP confirmed that several motorway sections were closed due to fog. As of 10:25am, multiple routes remained affected. The M-2 motorway was closed from Thokar Niaz Baig to Sial Mor. This section connects Lahore with key northern routes.
The M-3 motorway was closed between Faisal Pur and Darakhana. The M-4 motorway was shut from Shershah to Pindi Bhattian. These closures disrupted travel between major cities in central Punjab.
The M-5 motorway was closed from Shershah to Zaheer Peer. Meanwhile, the M-11 motorway remained closed from Lahore to Sambrial. Earlier, the M-5 had also been closed from Rohri to Rahim Yar Khan. That section was later reopened after visibility improved.
NHMP officials said closures are implemented section by section. Decisions depend on real-time visibility conditions. Routes are reopened once weather conditions allow safe travel.
Fog Forecast and Rising Safety Concerns
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, dense fog was expected to persist till 11am. Affected routes included the M-2 between Pindi Bhattian and Lahore. The M-3 from Lahore to Abdul Hakim was also under dense fog. The M-11 connecting Sialkot and Lahore remained heavily impacted.
The M-4 between Pindi Bhattian and Faisalabad also faced reduced visibility. The M-5 route from Multan to Sukkur was included in the fog advisory. Meteorologists warned that winter fog patterns may continue in the coming days.
Safety concerns have grown after recent fog-related accidents. Last week, three people lost their lives in separate incidents across Punjab. At least 34 others were injured due to low visibility crashes. These incidents prompted authorities to enforce stricter traffic controls.
On January 7, dense fog paralysed road traffic in large parts of Punjab. Several key motorways were closed for hours. Commuters faced long delays and detours.
An NHMP spokesperson from the Central Region said safety remains the top priority. He confirmed that the M-4 from Gojra to Abdul Hakeem and the M-11 Lahore-Sialkot motorway were fully closed earlier due to severe fog. Drivers were urged to use fog lights, maintain distance, and avoid unnecessary travel.
Authorities continue to advise caution as winter fog remains a recurring hazard.
