Motorists Warned of Dangerous Driving Conditions
The National Highways and Motorway Police has issued a travel advisory as heavy monsoon rains affect several parts of Pakistan.
The warning covers the period from July 24 to July 28.
Motorists have been advised to exercise extreme caution on national highways and motorways.
Widespread rain is expected across Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Heavy downpours may reduce visibility and make roads slippery.
Standing water could also increase the risk of vehicles losing control.
Drivers should reduce speed and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
Sudden braking and unnecessary lane changes should be avoided during rainfall.
Flooding and Landslides May Disrupt Major Routes
The NHMP warned that heavy rainfall could trigger landslides in mountainous areas.
Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir face a greater risk because of unstable slopes and difficult terrain.
Falling rocks and landslides could temporarily block important roads.
Travellers heading towards northern areas should check route conditions before beginning their journey.
Urban flooding is also possible in several parts of Punjab and Sindh.
Water accumulation on roads may disrupt traffic and damage vehicles.
Low-lying underpasses and poorly drained sections could become dangerous during intense rainfall.
Motorists should not attempt to cross flooded roads without knowing the water depth.
Even shallow, fast-moving water can push vehicles away from the road.
Drivers should also avoid parking near rivers, streams, drainage channels and unstable slopes.
Travellers Advised to Check Conditions Before Departure
The motorway police urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of severe weather.
People who must travel should inspect their vehicles before leaving.
Tyres, brakes, windscreen wipers, headlights and indicators should be checked carefully.
Drivers should keep emergency lights, drinking water and basic safety equipment inside their vehicles.
Seat belts must be worn by all passengers.
Motorcyclists should avoid travelling during heavy rain because of poor visibility and slippery roads.
The NHMP also advised drivers to follow speed limits and instructions issued by officers deployed on highways.
Travellers can obtain updated road and traffic information through the NHMP helpline at 130.
Updates are also available through the department’s official social media accounts and FM-95 radio service.
Authorities said weather and road conditions could change quickly during the monsoon spell.
Motorists should monitor official forecasts and delay their journeys when severe rain, flooding or landslides are reported.
