Section 144 imposed in Murree ahead of Independence Day

Pakistan’s most popular hill station, Murree, is set to experience a lockdown-style security clampdown as authorities impose Section 144 for three consecutive days during Independence Day celebrations.

The order, effective from August 12 to 14, 2025, was announced by Deputy Commissioner Agha Zaheer Abbas Shirazi.

Under the restrictions, public access to the town’s busiest tourist hubs—Mall Road and GPO Chowk—will be strictly limited to families in an effort to curb overcrowding and maintain order.

The move follows a stern warning issued by the District Intelligence Committee during its July 30 meeting, which flagged serious concerns over the potential for massive crowds, disorderly gatherings, and security threats during the expected four-day holiday weekend.

With thousands of visitors expected from across the country, officials feared that the scenic hill town could become overwhelmed, leading to chaos and safety hazards.

Authorities have cautioned that violators of the order will face immediate legal action under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code.

A heavy deployment of police and security forces is planned to ensure compliance, manage traffic flow, and prevent any untoward incidents.

Murree’s charm as a cool summer escape has often attracted overwhelming crowds during national holidays, but it has also been the scene of tragic events.

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The most devastating in recent memory occurred in January 2022, when a snowstorm trapped and killed 23 tourists who had come to witness snowfall near the New Year.

That tragedy prompted repeated calls for stricter crowd control measures and better disaster preparedness in the tourist hotspot.

Officials say the current restrictions are a preventive step to ensure that holiday celebrations remain safe and enjoyable for everyone—without compromising public order or emergency response capacity.