Severe Cold Wave Grips Quetta and Northern Balochistan: Temperatures Drop to -4°C as Gas Shortage Worsens Citizens’ Hardship

Quetta: A severe cold wave has swept through **Quetta and northern Balochistan**, disrupting daily life as temperatures plunged well below freezing. According to the **Pakistan Meteorological Department**, temperatures dropped to **-2°C in Quetta**, **-4°C in Ziarat**, and **-3°C in Kalat**.

Officials warn that temperatures may **fall by another 2 to 3 degrees** in the coming days, with **dense fog and frost** expected to intensify, further complicating conditions for residents.

The ongoing **gas shortage** in Quetta has compounded the suffering of citizens already struggling with the freezing weather. Many areas of the city are experiencing **extremely low gas pressure**, while some neighborhoods face **complete load-shedding from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.**

Residents complain that the **non-availability of gas** has made it nearly impossible to cook food, heat water, or keep their homes warm. **Elderly people, children, and patients** are the most affected, with reports of rising cases of **flu, cough, fever, and heart-related ailments**.

Despite instructions from **Balochistan Governor Jaffar Mandokhail** to the **Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC)** to restore normal gas supply in Quetta, citizens say there has been **no visible improvement** so far.

People have urged the **provincial and federal governments** to take **immediate action**, restore gas supply, and ensure the **availability of alternative energy sources** such as **LPG and electricity** to help residents cope with the harsh winter and prevent further health crises.