Heavy Snowfall in Northern Balochistan Disrupts Connectivity; Hail in Quetta, Roads Blocked in Ziarat and Sanjawi, Hundreds Stranded

**Quetta:** Intermittent rainfall and hail continue across the provincial capital Quetta and northern districts of Balochistan, intensifying the cold wave. Severe snowfall and rain have blocked roads in several northern areas including Toba Kakri, Brashur, Loye Band, Badini, Toba Achakzai, Karto, Dobandi Cross, Muslim Bagh, Kanjoghi, Ziarat, Sanjawi, Khrowari, Baba Hernai Road, Khanozai, Sapira, Ragha, Jinjun, and Loralai Road, cutting off connectivity and leaving hundreds of people stranded in local communities.

In Awtal and surrounding areas, the first winter rain of the season fell last night and continues intermittently. Residents expressed relief, noting that the precipitation may reduce cold-related illnesses such as flu, colds, and coughs. With the drop in temperature and occasional thunder, citizens brought out warm clothes, blankets, and shawls, while demand for winter apparel surged in Lunda Bazaar. Tea shops and street food vendors selling pakoras and samosas also saw increased business due to the chilly weather.

In Sanjawi and surrounding hilly areas including Wadi Chutair, Batte Tir, and Sher, light to moderate snowfall continues, while intermittent snow is reported in Nasha, Shireen, Poi Sharif, Khunhazai, and Wuch Wani. In plains areas, rainfall has further lowered temperatures. Due to severe slipperiness on the Sanjawi-Ziarat highway, the district administration temporarily closed the roads and advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel.

Rainfall also continues in Qila Abdullah and other districts, restoring moisture to drought-affected lands and orchards. Local farmers noted that apple and grape orchards had suffered significant damage in recent years, but the recent precipitation has rejuvenated them. If rainfall continues, it could improve apple and grape yields, boosting the local economy.

In Pishin city and adjacent hilly areas including Toba Kakri and Rod Malazai, rain and snowfall have covered the hills in a white blanket, intensifying the cold. Residents welcomed the rains, stating they would not only make the weather pleasant but also benefit agricultural production and the local economy. The district administration assured that it remains prepared for any adverse incidents and urged residents to remain cautious.

Farmers emphasized that these rains are particularly beneficial for wheat, apple, and grape orchards and expressed hope that they would contribute to agricultural prosperity in Balochistan.