Murree, Pakistan (The COW News Digital)Heavy rainfall has triggered a significant landslide on the Murree Expressway, causing partial closure of the road and raising safety concerns for travelers. Local authorities have shut down half of the expressway while rescue and restoration operations are underway.
Deputy Commissioner of Murree confirmed that large rocks and debris fell from the hillside due to continuous rains, blocking one lane of the highway. The remaining half of the expressway remains open, allowing limited traffic flow, but commuters are advised to exercise caution.
“Immediate measures have been taken to clear the affected section, and repair work has started,” the Deputy Commissioner said. “We aim to fully reopen the expressway as soon as possible, but travelers must avoid unnecessary journeys in the area for their own safety.”
Authorities warned that the risk of further landslides remains high, particularly during ongoing rainfall. Residents and motorists are urged to avoid hilly routes during adverse weather and to follow official travel advisories.
The landslide adds to the growing challenges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which has been grappling with heavy monsoon rains. In the past two days alone, 83 government schools have been reported completely damaged due to floods, highlighting the widespread impact of severe weather in the province.
Local administration has deployed teams to monitor the slopes, remove debris, and ensure that emergency response mechanisms are active. Traffic diversions have been arranged to reduce congestion, and additional warning signs have been installed to alert commuters of the potential hazards.
Experts say that continuous rainfall combined with the mountainous terrain of Murree makes landslides a recurrent threat. Authorities are emphasizing the importance of early warning systems and proper maintenance of hillside roads to mitigate future risks.
Meanwhile, the public has been advised to stay updated through official channels regarding road conditions and to avoid traveling in affected areas until full clearance and safety checks are completed.
The situation highlights the vulnerability of the region’s infrastructure to seasonal rains and the urgent need for proactive disaster management measures to protect citizens and maintain traffic flow.
