Balochistan’s 2nd snowfall of season

Plummeting temperatures led to surge in demand for both utilities, exacerbating persistent issue of load shedding

QUETTA:

In a scene reminiscent of a winter postcard, parts of Balochistan welcomed their second snowfall of the season on Monday, transforming the landscape into a magical winter wonderland. Areas like Kan Mehtarzai, Ziarat, Toba Kakarai, and Quetta, along with their surroundings, were blanketed in a pristine layer of snow, painting a picturesque picture.

While many residents of Quetta revelled in the chilly weather, for some, the joy was overshadowed by the challenges brought about by the unavailability of gas and electricity. The plummeting temperatures led to a surge in demand for both utilities, exacerbating the persistent issue of load shedding. Consequently, numerous individuals grappled with prolonged darkness and cold, disrupting their daily routines and causing discomfort.

The snowfall in Kan Mehtarzai and Khojak Top resulted in road blockades, prompting the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) to deploy heavy machinery to ensure the smooth flow of traffic. Despite these efforts, long queues of vehicles formed due to the road closures.

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Nauman Khan, a Quetta resident, shed light on the hardships posed by the snowfall. “While the scenery is breathtaking, it comes with its fair share of challenges,” he remarked. “The erratic gas and power supply make it difficult to stay warm and carry out daily tasks, especially during these harsh winter days.”

Calls have been made to authorities to promptly address the issues pertaining to gas and power supply, alleviating the burden on residents. Meanwhile, locals are urged to take necessary precautions to stay warm and safe amidst the harsh weather conditions. “WAPDA and Sui Gas should show compassion towards people during this freezing weather,” lamented Nauman Khan.

Efforts to mitigate the impact of gas and power outages are of paramount importance as the snowfall persists, ensuring that communities can withstand the winter season with resilience.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 27^th, 2024.