Sub-zero cold leaves Shangla freezing

SHANGLA:

Shangla district has been gripped by an intense cold wave, with temperatures in most areas dropping below the freezing point, bringing daily life to a virtual standstill.

In upper and mountainous regions, sub-zero temperatures combined with icy winds sweeping across the valley have significantly intensified the cold. As a result, markets and bazaars wear a deserted look during morning and evening hours, while routine activities have been badly disrupted.

The harsh weather has caused water supply lines to freeze in several upper areas, while natural springs have turned into blocks of ice, triggering an acute shortage of drinking water. In many villages, residents are being forced to fetch water from distant locations. The weather remained cloudy for a second consecutive day in the upper regions, prolonging the severity of the cold spell.

Meanwhile, the absence of rainfall has led to critically low water levels in springs, local rivers and streams, affecting not only domestic needs but also agriculture and livestock. Several local hydropower plants have shut down due to reduced water flow, resulting in severe disruption of local electricity supply in many areas.

Local residents warned that if rains do not occur soon, the water crisis could worsen further.