Murree on High Alert as District Gears Up for Winter Tourist Rush

News Desk 

Rawalpindi: With the winter season fast approaching, the Murree administration has stepped up preparations to ensure the safety of tourists and residents amid forecasts of heavy snowfall.

Officials have directed all departments to remain on high alert under the Master Snowfall Emergency Core Plan, aimed at preventing a repeat of past winter tragedies.

Chairing a meeting of the District Emergency Board, Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Murree Kamran Sagheer reviewed the district’s readiness for snow-related emergencies.

The meeting focused on enhancing coordination among departments and strengthening rescue, traffic, and public facilitation measures during the expected tourist influx.

New rescue stations in Murree and Kotli Sattian, registration of private ambulances, and implementation of updated standard operating procedures (SOPs) were among the key steps discussed.

Officials from the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) briefed the forum on the winter contingency plan, highlighting the deployment of field teams, early warning systems, and public awareness campaigns to ensure quick response during emergencies.

ADC Sagheer directed that all departments remain equipped with full resources throughout the snowfall season. “Rescue teams, police, and traffic staff must stay in the field to guide and assist tourists at every step. Our top priority is to protect lives and ensure a safe and hassle-free experience for all visitors,” he said.

The administration has urged citizens and tourists to stay informed about weather conditions and to immediately contact Rescue 1122 or the district control room at 051-9330016, 051-9330025, 051-9269016, or 051-9269018 in case of emergencies.

The meeting was attended by assistant commissioners of Murree and Kotli Sattian, senior officers from Health, Police, Motorway Police, WAPDA, Civil Defence, Waste Management, and National Highway Authority, among others.

Officials emphasized that Murree’s preparedness this year is focused not just on emergency response, but also on preventive measures, efficient traffic management, and real-time communication with tourists to ensure safety and avoid congestion during peak snowfall days.