F.P. Report
ASTORE: Intense cold wave continued to grip upper parts of Giligt Balistan following recent snowfall coupled with intermittent rain, adding to woes for residents. According to reports received here on Thursday, most parts of GB especially hilly areas have received two-foot snow during the recent rain-spell, dropping temperature to freezing level of up to minus 15 C.
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.
