A landslide triggered by heavy rainfall has damaged a section of the Murree Expressway, forcing authorities to close part of the road. The incident, reported on August 19, 2025, has disrupted travel to the popular hill station, with officials urging commuters to avoid non-essential trips during the ongoing monsoon season.
What Happened?
Intense rainfall in Murree caused large rocks to tumble from nearby hills, blocking one lane of the Murree Expressway. The district administration acted swiftly, closing the affected section to ensure public safety. While the rest of the expressway remains open, repair teams are working to clear debris and assess the road’s structural integrity.
The landslide occurred in an area prone to such incidents during the monsoon season, which typically brings heavy rains to Murree and surrounding regions. No injuries were reported, but the closure has caused inconvenience for tourists and locals relying on the expressway to travel between Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and Murree.
Impact on Travel and Safety
The closure has prompted authorities to issue a public advisory. Travelers are urged to use alternative routes and avoid hilly areas during heavy rainfall due to the risk of further landslides. The Murree Expressway, a vital link between the twin cities and the hill station, sees heavy traffic, especially during tourist seasons.
- Safety Measures: Authorities have deployed teams to clear the debris and are monitoring the area for additional risks.
- Travel Advisory: Non-essential travel to Murree is discouraged until repairs are complete.
- Alternative Routes: Commuters are advised to use other roads, such as the RMK GT Road, where feasible.
The district administration emphasized that the closure is a precautionary measure to prevent accidents. Heavy rainfall has also caused traffic delays in nearby areas, with some roads becoming slippery and hazardous.
Background and Context
Murree, a popular tourist destination in Punjab, is known for its scenic beauty and cool climate, attracting thousands of visitors each year. However, its hilly terrain makes it vulnerable to landslides during the monsoon season, which runs from July to September. Past incidents, such as a 2022 landslide on the Murree Expressway, have similarly disrupted travel, highlighting the need for ongoing road maintenance and disaster preparedness.
The expressway, connecting Rawalpindi to Murree, is undergoing expansion to accommodate growing tourist traffic, with a Rs. 1.2 billion project approved in 2024. Despite these efforts, heavy rains continue to pose challenges, damaging infrastructure and affecting local communities.
Official Response and Next Steps
Murree’s Deputy Commissioner, Agha Zaheer Abbas Shirazi, confirmed that repair work is underway and the damaged section will reopen once deemed safe. “We are working round-the-clock to restore the expressway, but public safety is our priority,” he said. Authorities expect full restoration soon, depending on weather conditions and the extent of the damage.
The district administration has also set up helplines for travelers needing assistance. Rescue 1122 and other departments are on high alert to respond to emergencies in the region.
For updates, travelers can contact the Punjab Disaster Management Authority’s helpline at 1129. Authorities urge residents and tourists to stay informed about weather conditions and follow traffic advisories to ensure safe travel.
