Cold wave tightens grip on mountainous districts

Residents struggle as temperatures plunge to sub-zero

SHANGLA:

A severe cold wave continues to grip mountainous districts of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa including Shangla, Swat and Chitral causing widespread hardship for residents as freezing winds and an unusual drop in temperatures disrupt daily life.

Both upper highlands and residential areas, including Alpuri, Puran, Besham, Martung, and Chakaiser in Shalga, are experiencing intense cold, particularly during the night and early morning hours. In the hilly regions, icy winds and low temperatures have significantly affected routine activities, forcing people indoors.

Health officials report a noticeable rise in seasonal illnesses among the elderly, children, and women, including colds, flu, cough, fever, sore throat, respiratory complications, and joint pain. Local hospitals and basic health units have witnessed an increase in patients suffering from cold-related ailments. Medical experts have advised citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor movement, wear warm clothing, and adopt precautionary measures.

According to health specialists, the immune system weakens during extreme cold, making people more vulnerable to infections. Patients suffering from pneumonia, asthma, influenza, and blood pressure-related conditions have been urged to exercise extra caution.

Doctors have also recommended the use of warm water, a balanced diet, vitamin C-rich foods, and adequate rest.

The prolonged cold spell has led to increased use of warm clothing and a surge in demand for hot beverages, including tea, green tea, qehwa, milk, broth, and other warming drinks. Residents say these measures provide only temporary relief from the biting cold.

Meanwhile, the intensifying cold has triggered a firewood crisis across various parts of Shangla. Prices of firewood have surged sharply, with locals claiming that rates have doubled as temperatures dropped.