Motorway Fog Hazards: Calls for Safety Upgrades on Peshawar-Islamabad Route
In the cold winter months, a significant safety concern emerges on the Peshawar–Islamabad motorway, where dense fog often leads to hazardous driving conditions and forced closures. Unlike smog, which typically results from burning farm stubble, fog forms naturally from water vapour in the air during chilly weather. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced in areas near river crossings within colder regions, making such spots more susceptible to thick fog accumulation.
Fog-Prone Sections on the Motorway
On the Peshawar–Islamabad motorway, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) section features two river crossings that are notorious for generating intense fog during winter. These specific stretches frequently experience such dense fog that authorities are compelled to shut down the motorway to prevent accidents. The closures disrupt travel and commerce, highlighting a critical need for improved infrastructure.
Currently, these fog-prone sections lack essential safety measures. There are no street lights to illuminate the road, no reflective markings to guide drivers in low visibility, and no LED road lights to enhance clarity. In some areas, even the basic road paint is missing, further exacerbating the danger for motorists navigating through the fog.
Urgent Calls for Safety Enhancements
It is strongly requested that motorway managers take immediate action to install these vital safety features on the sections most affected by fog. Implementing street lights, reflective markings, and LED lighting would significantly improve visibility and reduce the risk of accidents. Such upgrades would not only enhance driver safety but also allow the motorway to remain operational during foggy nights, minimizing disruptions.
By addressing these deficiencies, authorities can help ensure that the Peshawar–Islamabad route remains a reliable and safe corridor for travel, even in challenging winter conditions. This proactive approach is essential for safeguarding lives and maintaining efficient transportation networks in Pakistan.
