Murree welcomed the New Year 2026 in an absolutely breathtaking way. On the first New Year night of 2026, the hill station experienced heavy snowfall, transforming the entire region into a white paradise. Snow-covered roads, pine trees wrapped in ice, and foggy mountains created a magical atmosphere that felt straight out of a fairytale. Residents and tourists alike celebrated the arrival of the New Year with joy, capturing moments, playing in the snow, and enjoying the serene beauty of nature.

The snowfall was one of the heaviest of the season, something people had been eagerly waiting for. Hotels were filled with excitement, and Murree once again proved why it is one of Pakistan’s most loved winter destinations. However, along with beauty came serious challenges.Due to extremely heavy snowfall, major roads were blocked and traffic movement was restricted. Authorities allowed only local residents and emergency vehicles to pass, while 

entry for outside traffic was temporarily suspended. These measures were taken to avoid any unfortunate incidents and to ensure public safety.

This decision was influenced by the tragic incident of January 2022, when heavy snowfall in Murree caused massive traffic jams. Hundreds of vehicles were stuck for hours, and several people lost their lives after staying inside cars with heaters turned on, which reduced oxygen levels and led to fatal consequences. That incident remains a painful reminder of how dangerous extreme winter conditions can be if safety precautions are ignored.

While snowfall is beautiful and attracts thousands of visitors, it is crucial for tourists to act responsibly. Anyone planning to visit Murree during the winter season should stay updated on weather conditions, follow government advisories, avoid unnecessary travel, and be mindful of oxygen circulation if stranded.

Murree’s New Year Night 2026 was truly stunning — a perfect blend of natural beauty, celebration, and an important lesson in winter safety.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)