Singles and tourists without family will be banned from Mall Road, GPO Chowk and surrounding areas.
MURREE:
The district administration imposed Article 144 ahead of the New Year celebrations, creating difficulties for tourists visiting the hill station.
Under Section 144, the administration can tell people to stop a certain act or follow certain restrictions (such as prohibiting gatherings, limiting entry to an area, restricting movement, etc.). It can apply to an individual or to the general public in a specific area (like Mall Road/GPO Chowk in Murree).
During important festivals, a large number of tourists usually head to Murree. The administration has implemented strict restrictions this year. Access to Mall Road will be limited and only families will be allowed entry on New Year’s Eve. Singles and tourists without family will be banned from Mall Road, GPO Chowk and surrounding areas.
The move has sparked concern and frustration among tourists, who have urged higher authorities to withdraw Article 144. They recalled that in previous years, tourists were allegedly mistreated and detained under the pretext of Article 144.
The application of Article 144 during the festive period has caused serious inconvenience and has provoked strong reactions in public and social circles. As in previous years, tourists in large numbers from across the country have flocked to Murree to celebrate the New Year, but the sudden imposition of restrictions has led to hardship, mental stress and disappointment.
