Manan Mandokhail:
Quetta: Citizens in Quetta and Kuchlak took to the streets on Friday to protest against prolonged gas and electricity load shedding, which has paralyzed daily life in the provincial capital. The demonstration, organized by the Pashtun Khwa Milli Awami Party (PKMAP) and led by its Provincial Secretary Kabir Afghan, saw participants marching on major highways, including the Quetta-Chaman highway.
Protesters expressed frustration over the gas company and the government shutting off gas during extreme cold, leaving families to endure freezing temperatures. “Gas load shedding in the severe winter has made our lives miserable,” said a protester, emphasizing the struggle of cooking and heating homes without gas.
Citizens also decried electricity outages, which have compounded their problems, bringing life to a standstill. Protesters alleged that despite court orders, gas is being completely shut off at specific hours, and fixed charges are still being included in gas bills.
“Accidents are happening every day due to the gas load shedding. People are losing their lives,” lamented another protester. The demonstration highlighted the urgent need for authorities to address the crisis and ensure uninterrupted gas and electricity supplies during the winter.
This ongoing crisis has left citizens in dire straits, urging immediate action from the government and relevant authorities.