The district administration has imposed Section 144 in Murree ahead of New Year celebrations, placing strict restrictions on movement and public gatherings, a move that has caused inconvenience and frustration among tourists visiting the hill station.
Under Section 144, authorities are empowered to prohibit certain activities, restrict entry into specified areas, and limit public movement to maintain law and order. As part of the latest measures, access to Mall Road, GPO Chowk, and surrounding areas will be restricted on New Year’s night. Only families will be allowed entry, while bachelors and tourists without families will be barred from these locations.
Murree traditionally attracts a large influx of tourists during the New Year holidays. However, this year’s strict enforcement has disrupted travel plans for many visitors who had arrived to celebrate the occasion. Tourists have expressed disappointment, urging higher authorities to reconsider and withdraw the restrictions.
Several visitors recalled incidents from previous years in which tourists were allegedly mistreated or detained under the pretext of Section 144, raising concerns about the handling of the situation this year as well.
The sudden imposition of restrictions during the festive period has drawn strong reactions from public and social circles. Many tourists reported facing hardship, mental stress, and disappointment, saying the measures have dampened the spirit of New Year celebrations in the popular hill resort.
Despite the criticism, the administration maintains that the restrictions are aimed at ensuring public safety and preventing overcrowding during the peak holiday period.
