Murree’s district administration has announced a temporary clampdown on movement in the hill station, imposing Section 144 from August 12 to 14 to keep tourist crowds under control during the busy holiday period.

According to Monday’s official notification, access to Mall Road will be limited exclusively to visiting families, with all other public gatherings in the area prohibited.

Deputy Commissioner Murree warned that anyone flouting the order could face prosecution under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code — a charge that can lead to fines or jail time.

The decision comes just before Pakistan’s Independence Day, a time when Murree typically sees a surge of visitors escaping the summer heat. Authorities say the restriction is intended to prevent overcrowding, maintain public order, and avoid the traffic and safety issues that often plague the resort town during long weekends and holidays.