ABBOTABAD:
The Galiyat region of Abbottabad district received the season’s first snowfall on Saturday, which significantly lowered temperatures.
Locals and official sources in Galiyat said the snowfall lasted only a few hours, but was enjoyed by tourists from all over the country.
It started snowing in Nathiagali, Ayubia and Changlagali among other hill stations at around 11am. Nearly two inches of snow accumulated, which melted soon after.
Sardar Qaem Khan, an elder from Ayubia, said the snowfall has started two weeks earlier than usual. “Weather conditions are changing in our area; Galiyat usually receives heavy snowfall in the second week of December,” he said.
The second spell of snowfall is usually heavier and paralyses life in the region. Poor management by the Galiyat Development Authority usually means that roads leading to Ayubia bazaar, Nathiagali and other hilly areas are blocked for days.
Lowari pass closed for traffic
The Dir-Chitral Road was closed for traffic after heavy snowfall on Friday night and Saturday morning, leaving hundreds of commuters, including some patients, stranded.
The Dir-Chitral road is the only road route from Chitral to other parts of the province.
Most people faced food shortages and demanded the authorities to reopen the tunnel. However, there was no response from them.
Meanwhile, in Garam Chasma, Kalash Valley and Bomborat, five inches of snowfall was recorded.
More snowfall is expected in the coming days.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 25th, 2012.
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