Quetta: The intensity of cold weather has sharply increased across Quetta and northern parts of Balochistan.
On Tuesday, dusty winds and suspended particles in the air caused a sudden temperature drop, bringing the mercury down to 5°C in Quetta valley.
As the cold wave intensified, residents in several areas including Sariab, Ghousabad, and Satellite Town faced severe difficulties due to low gas pressure, making it hard for households to cook meals.
For over a year, Sui Southern Gas Company has been implementing nighttime gas load-shedding in Quetta from 9:30 PM to 6:00 AM, which has further worsened the situation.
Citizens, especially women, continue to face hardships in managing daily household tasks.
Public representatives have urged the government to take immediate action, directing gas authorities to restore full pressure and ensure uninterrupted 24-hour gas supply during the winter months.
Quetta, known for its harsh and prolonged winters, often experiences temperatures dropping below freezing point from late October onward.
The city’s cold wave is accompanied by strong winds and dry weather, making daily life increasingly difficult for residents.
Despite being a major urban center, Quetta continues to face severe gas shortages every winter.
Many households rely on gas for heating and cooking, and low pressure or load-shedding leaves them struggling to stay warm.
The lack of alternative energy sources and limited infrastructure exacerbate the crisis, forcing citizens to depend on firewood and LPG cylinders, which are both costly and unsafe.
This recurring issue highlights the urgent need for sustainable energy management in the province.
As the intensity of winter increases and gas shortages continue to trouble residents, several remedies have been suggested to ease the hardships faced by citizens.
Locals have urged the authorities to ensure an uninterrupted gas supply or provide alternative heating options.
Experts have recommended the use of solar-powered water and room heaters to reduce dependence on gas.
In addition, households are being advised to improve home insulation by sealing windows and using thick curtains and carpets to retain warmth.
Public demand has also grown for the government to increase gas pressure during peak winter months and ensure fair distribution across all areas.
Citizens have requested the establishment of warm shelters for low-income families and subsidized gas or fuel during cold waves.
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These measures, they believe, can help mitigate the severe winter challenges faced by the people of Quetta and surrounding areas.
