Police close several motorway routes in Punjab after accidents due to thick smog

In a bid to ensure public safety amid hazardous driving conditions caused by thick fog and smog, the Motorway Police have temporarily closed several key routes in Punjab. 

Affected routes include the M2 (Lahore to Sheikhupura), M3 (Lahore to Jaranwala), and M4 (Gojra to Abdul Hakeem).

 Authorities have urged drivers to avoid nighttime travel when visibility is particularly poor, advising that travel during daylight hours would offer clearer conditions. 

Motorists have also been instructed to utilise fog lights both front and rear to enhance their visibility on the road.

The closures come in the wake of a serious series of accidents near the Hiran Minar Interchange in Sheikhupura early Friday morning, caused by reduced visibility. 

According to reports from local rescue officials, multiple vehicles were involved in collisions along the Lahore-Islamabad Motorway. 

At least five people were injured in the accidents, with affected individuals promptly transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Initial investigations suggest that the accidents were a direct result of the dense smog and fog conditions, which drastically hindered drivers' ability to see other vehicles on the road. 

Rescue 1122 reached the spot and worked with the Motorway Police to clear the wreckage and ensure the safe evacuation of all injured parties. 

Significant damage to vehicles was reported, but no casualties were reported by the authorities.

The Motorway Police have assured the public that the road will be reopened once the scene is cleared and normal traffic conditions are restored. 

Authorities emphasised that such closures are a preventive measure designed to safeguard travelers during extreme weather conditions, and have urged the public to heed travel advisories to avoid further accidents.