Islamabad
Murree attracted crowds of visitors, mostly residents of Islamabad, Rawalpindi and adjoining areas, on Tuesday due to Ashura holidays.
Most visitors planned to spend Wednesday, too, in the hill station, especially to enjoy the pleasantly cold weather heralding the advent of the winter season.
The government and private organisations have announced holidays on Tuesday and Wednesday on account of Ashura prompting many families of Islamabad and Rawalpindi to go on excursion trips to nearby hill stations.
In Murree, Pindi Point, Kashmir Point, the Mall and Ayubia were the main attractions for visitors, while adjoining areas like Galyaat, Bhurban, Ayubia and Nathiagali also attracted crowds.
Many youths used motorcycles to reach Murree, which is an hour’s drive from the capital city. Local hotels reported a surge in bookings. However, visitors complained the hotels, especially those on the Mall, overcharged them without let or hindrance.
Traffic jams were also seen on the Mall, at GPO Chowk and on Kuldanna Road mainly due to wrong parking of vehicles.