GB upper parts in grips of severe cold

F.P. Report

ASTORE: Temperature in all upper parts of Gilgit-Baltistan has witnessed couple of numbers below zero after snowfall and rain. The intermittent rain and snowfall that started in Skardu, Astore and Chillas and adjoining areas continued till filing of this report that has aggravated the chilly condition with temperature falling to minus ten some areas.

In tourists’ areas, Rama two feet of snowfall was recorded while Deosai also witnessed two feet snowfall. In Mirmalak intense cold has gripped the area after heavy snowfall from last night. Intermittent snowfall was also recorded at Babusar Top, Chillam Top and Nanga Parbat while rain with intervals was recorded in Chillas City. Approach roads to various localities in the upper parts were covered with thick layer of snow, disconnecting these localities to other adjoining areas and adding to problems for the residents. However, staff of the Public Works Department (PWD) is hectically engaged to clear the roads with help of machinery. Profiteers were making quick bucks and capitalizing on the sufferings being experienced by local people.

Rates of firewood have soared manifold and its one mound was sold at 900 rupees, similarly domestic 11-kg cylinder was refilled at exorbitant rate at Rs 1850 while Rs 23500 was charged for 15-Kg cylinder. Thus people of the those areas have demanded the concerned authorities to stop shopkeepers from this artificial price hike especially of firewood and take an action against businessmen cashing the situation. They demanded the government to supply enough food items to market especially wheat in order to extend relief to consumers.