Pakistan: Many dead as heavy snow traps drivers in their vehicles

Pictures and video on social media show cars trapped bumper to bumper, snow piled onto their roofs.

At least 21 people have died, including 10 children, according to emergency services. Police said at least six had frozen to death in their cars. Asphyxiation after inhaling fumes has been given as a possible reason for the others.

“People are facing a terrible situation,” Usman Abbasi, a tourist stuck in the town where heavy snow was still falling, told AFP news agency by phone.

“It’s not only the tourists, but the local population is also facing severe problems,” he added, saying there were gas and water shortages.

Locals have provided blankest and food to the trapped, while those who could make it up to the town – which sits at 2,300 metres (7,500 feet) above sea level – have been given shelter in government and school buildings.

Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed shock over the “tragic deaths” of the tourists, noting how the snowfall and the “rush of [people] proceeding without checking weather conditions caught district admin unprepared”.

“Have ordered inquiry and putting in place strong regulations to ensure prevention of such tragedies,” Mr Khan said in a tweet.

Murree was built by the British in the 19th century as a medical base for its colonial troops.