ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad-Lahore motorway experienced a closure to traffic on Tuesday as a result of dense fog enveloping Lahore.
A spokesperson from the motorway police stated that the closure was initiated due to worsening fog conditions.
Furthermore, the Lahore-Sialkot motorway (M11) also faced restrictions on traffic.
Meanwhile, Lahore grappled with the challenges posed by the escalating cold weather on the same day.
The city was in the grip of a cold wave, and although fog persisted, it contributed to a decrease in smog levels.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Lahore was recorded at 185. Despite the harsh cold, the city’s residents coped with the combined effects of low temperatures and fog.
Looking ahead, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecasted rainfall in the final week of January.
The expected maximum temperature in the city is 9 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature is anticipated to remain at 4 degrees Celsius.
Meanwhile, effective January 1, the National Highways and Motorway Police in Pakistan have instituted a comprehensive overhaul of traffic fines, introducing heavy penalties for various violations.
The decision, applicable to all vehicles without discrimination, aims to enhance road safety and discipline on the highways under the NHMP’s jurisdiction.
Under the new regulations, fines start from Rs1,000 and can go up to Rs10,000 for serious offenses.
Violating the maximum speed limit attracts fines of Rs1,500 for motorcycles, Rs2,500 for cars, Rs5,000 for heavy traffic vehicles (HTVs), and a substantial Rs10,000 for passenger coaches.
