As dense fog blankets vast regions of Pakistan, the National Highways & Motorway Police (NH&MP) has issued a crucial advisory for all road users. The authority is urging extreme caution and strict adherence to traffic rules to prevent accidents during the hazardous winter weather conditions.
Critical Advisory from Motorway Police
The primary warning from officials focuses on a dangerous and common practice: lane violations during low visibility. When fog severely limits a driver's sight, there is a tendency to stray from the designated lane, often encroaching into the path of oncoming traffic. The Motorway Police have emphasized that this behavior drastically increases the risk of catastrophic head-on collisions.
In their official communication, the police stressed that all drivers must remain within their lane markings and rely on road indicators and reflective studs to navigate. The advisory was specifically issued for the safety of travelers on motorways and national highways, where high speeds combined with poor visibility create a particularly deadly mix.
Essential Safety Measures for Drivers
Beyond the warning against lane violations, the NH&MP outlined a comprehensive set of precautions for motorists. First and foremost, drivers must significantly reduce their speed to match the prevailing visibility conditions. Maintaining a safe following distance becomes even more critical in fog, as sudden stops are harder to anticipate.
The proper use of vehicle lights is non-negotiable. Drivers are instructed to use fog lights and low-beam headlights, while avoiding high beams, which cause glare and reflection off the fog, further impairing vision. The police also recommend using windshield wipers and defoggers to keep the glass clear for whatever limited visibility exists.
For long journeys, additional planning is advised. Travelers should check weather forecasts before departing, ensure their vehicle is in good mechanical condition—especially brakes and tires—and plan for extra travel time. If the fog becomes too dense, the safest course of action is to exit the highway and wait at a safe location until conditions improve.
Enforcement and Public Cooperation
The Motorway Police have assured the public that patrols are being intensified on affected routes. Officers will be monitoring for violations like speeding, dangerous overtaking, and driving without proper lights. The overarching message is one of shared responsibility.
Authorities are calling for public cooperation to ensure everyone reaches their destination safely. By following the guidelines, drivers protect not only their own lives but also the lives of their families and other road users. The annual winter fog season demands heightened awareness and a collective commitment to safe driving practices across Pakistan's road network.
