Chilly evenings take over twin cities

Residents in the twin cities have begun donning warm clothes to shield themselves against the dry cold and smog which has descended upon Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

As the temperature drops, gathering spots for socialising have started to empty early. Recreational parks across the city, which used to remain lively with visitors staying until midnight or even up to 1am during the summer, are now almost deserted after sunset. After 8pm, only a few families are seen sitting in parks.

On the other hand, temporary stalls and carts selling winter specialties like peanuts, other dry fruits, coffee and soup have cropped up along roads and streets of all sectors and neighbourhoods in the twin cities. The stalls are already attracting crowds seeking warmth in the chilly evenings.

Queues of vehicles have begun to form near old shops in the commercial markets of Saddar and Murree Road which are well-known for their special delicacies.

Families and people of all ages including the youth and elderly, who have been waiting to revisit these stores since last winter, enjoy soups, kahwa and other dishes despite prices having reached record highs this year.