LAHORE: Dense and persistent fog led to the partial closure of several key motorways across Pakistan on Monday, affecting sections of the M-2, M-3, M-4, M-5, and M-11, authorities said.
Read More: Fog reigns in Lahore, other cities: motorways closed at several places
The National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) reported that the M-2 motorway was closed from Thokar Niaz Baig to Sial Mor, the M-3 from Faisal Pur to Darakhana, and the M-4 from Shershah to Pindi Bhattian. The M-5 was shut between Shershah and Zaheer Peer, while the M-11 from Lahore to Sambrial remained partially closed. Earlier closures on M-5 from Rohri to Rahim Yar Khan were lifted as visibility improved.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, dense fog was expected to persist on the M-2 (Pindi Bhattian–Lahore), M-3 (Lahore–Abdul Hakim), M-4 (Pindi Bhattian–Faisalabad), M-5 (Multan–Sukkur), and M-11 (Sialkot–Lahore) corridors until around 11am. Motorway authorities advised commuters to exercise caution, reduce speed, and avoid unnecessary travel during low visibility conditions.
Fog-related accidents have already caused fatalities in Punjab. Last week, three people died and 34 others were injured in separate incidents. On January 7, severe fog had paralyzed road traffic across large parts of the province, prompting closures on the M-4 from Gojra to Abdul Hakim and the M-11 Lahore–Sialkot Motorway.
NHMP officials said that visibility is being closely monitored and that partial closures will continue until conditions improve. Authorities urged drivers to remain alert, maintain safe distances, and follow official advisories to prevent accidents.
Read More: Dense fog paralyzes flights and motorways nationwide
The persistent fog highlights ongoing winter hazards on Pakistan’s highways, particularly in Punjab, where commuters and long-distance travelers face daily risks from reduced visibility and icy or wet conditions.