Singles and tourists without families will not be allowed to enter Mall Road, GPO Chowk and surrounding areas
MURREE:
The district administration imposed Section 144 ahead of the New Year celebrations, creating difficulties for tourists visiting the hill station.
Under Article 144, the administration can ask people to stop a certain act or follow certain restrictions (like prohibiting gatherings, limiting entry to an area, restricting movement, etc.). It can apply to a single person or to the general public in a specific area (like Mall Road/GPO Chowk in Murree).
During major festivals, a large number of tourists usually visit Murree. The administration has imposed strict restrictions this year. Access to Mall Road will be restricted and only families will be allowed entry on New Year’s Eve. Singles and tourists without families will not be allowed to enter Mall Road, GPO Chowk and surrounding areas.
The move sparked concern and frustration among tourists, who urged higher authorities to withdraw Section 144. They recalled that in previous years, tourists were allegedly mistreated and detained under the pretext of Section 144.
The application of Article 144 during the holiday season has caused serious inconvenience, sparking strong reactions from the public and social circles. Like previous years, a large number of tourists from across the country arrived in Murree to celebrate the New Year, but the sudden imposition of restrictions led to hardship, mental stress and disappointment.
