Driving to Murree This New Year? Don’t Get Your Vehicle Seized!

If you’re planning a road trip to Murree for New Year celebrations, take note. The Murree district administration hasn’t just issued a warning — they’ve locked down the “Queen of Hills” with Section 144, a “Code Red” weather alert, and strict vehicle-specific mandates.

Whether you’re driving a 4×4 or a front-wheel-drive sedan, here is the PakWheels breakdown of what to expect from December 31 to January 1.

Driving In The Snow

With the Met Department forecasting heavy snowfall through January 2, the administration is treating vehicle fitness as a matter of life and death.

Mandatory Snow Chains

Traffic wardens are authorized to turn back any vehicle attempting to climb toward upper Murree without metal snow chains.

4×4 Priority

While not banned, 2WD sedans and hatchbacks are “strongly discouraged” during active snowfall. 4×4 SUVs are the preferred choice for safety.

The M-Tag Deadline

As of January 1, 2026, M-Tags are being strictly enforced at entry points. Ensure your tag is active and funded to avoid being stuck at the toll plaza.

Zero Tolerance: The “No-Go” List

The following will result in immediate impounding or legal action:

• A complete ban on bikes entering central areas.
• One-wheeling, silencer-less exhausts, and aerial firing will get you arrested.
• Anyone creating a third or double lane is fined and removed.

The “Family-Only” Lockdown: Who Gets In?

DC Agha Zaheer Abbas Shirazi and DPO Dr. Raza Tanveer Sipra have stated that access to Mall Road and GPO Chowk is limited strictly to families from Dec 31 to Jan 1. Groups of friends or solo male travelers will be diverted away from the city center to New Murree (Patriata) or the Galiyat region, where restrictions are comparatively relaxed.

PakWheels Winter Survival Guide (Pro-Tips)

Driving in Murree during a “Code Red” snowfall is not like driving on the Motorway. Follow these rules to keep your car and your family safe:

Feature	Driver Action
Fuel Level	Keep it above 80%. Idling in traffic consumes more fuel than you think.
Heater Usage	Warning: Never sleep with the heater on. Keep windows slightly ajar to prevent Carbon Monoxide buildup.
Braking	Use engine braking (lower gears) on descents. Tapping the brakes on black ice will cause a skid.
Emergency Kit	Carry a tow rope, jumper cables, a shovel, and plenty of dry fruit/water.

 

The Verdict

Murree is bracing for a repeat of the 2022 tragedy and is taking no chances. If you don’t have family with you or your vehicle isn’t equipped for sub-zero mountain conditions, our advice is to stay home or head to the outskirts. The administration has made it clear: safety is non-negotiable.

Check before you leave:

• Traffic Control Room: 051-9269200
• Emergency: 1122