Dense fog has forced the National Highways and Motorway Police to temporarily close key sections of five major motorways, citing dangerously low visibility across Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Authorities said the decision was taken to ensure public safety as weather conditions deteriorated rapidly during the evening hours.
According to the latest advisory issued at 8:40 PM GMT on January 18, 2026, several motorway sections were shut after visibility dropped below safe driving limits. The closures affect routes frequently used by intercity commuters and freight transport, increasing travel disruption during peak winter conditions.
The closed sections include the M-1 from Peshawar to Rashakai, the M-2 between Thokar Niaz Baig and Hiran Minar, and the M-3 from Faizpur to Jaranwala. These routes are among the busiest in the country and are particularly vulnerable to fog-related incidents during winter months.
In addition, the M-4 section connecting Multan to Shorkot and the M-11 between Lahore and Sambrial have also been shut. Officials said fog density in these areas reduced visibility to near zero, making it impossible for drivers to maintain safe braking distances.
Motorway Police officials stated that such preventive closures are a routine safety measure during winter fog spells. They emphasized that temporary inconvenience is preferable to the risk of multi-vehicle pile-ups and serious accidents that often occur in poor visibility conditions.
Commuters have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel at night, especially during foggy weather, and to strictly follow official updates. Drivers are urged to use fog lights correctly, maintain low speeds, and remain patient until weather conditions improve and motorways are reopened.
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