Cold grips Balochistan as gas shortages worsen

QUETTA: The first winter rainfall in Quetta and several other parts of Balochistan has brought a sharp drop in temperatures, adding to the difficulties of residents already struggling with prolonged natural gas shortages and rising fuel costs.

Rain showers were reported in Quetta, Kolpur, Harnai, Chagai and Dalbandin on Wednesday as a cold spell swept across the province. The sudden change in weather prompted residents to visit local markets to purchase warm clothes and prepare for the approaching winter.

The falling temperatures have further worsened living conditions, particularly in Quetta and northern districts, where households are already facing low gas pressure and frequent gas outages.

With piped natural gas largely unavailable, many families have been forced to rely on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to meet their cooking and heating needs. However, the alternative has become increasingly expensive, placing an additional financial burden on consumers.

Residents are reportedly struggling to purchase LPG at government-regulated prices, as local shopkeepers are charging between Rs550 and Rs600 per kilogram.

The high prices have raised concerns among households already facing financial difficulties, particularly as colder weather increases demand for heating fuel.

The combination of falling temperatures, unreliable gas supplies and expensive LPG has intensified winter hardships for residents across several parts of Balochistan.