Syed Ali Shah: Record snowfall in Quetta transformed the provincial capital into a stunning white carpet, as thick snow covered roads, rooftops, parks, and open spaces, drawing visitors from other provinces, particularly Sindh, to witness and enjoy the rare winter scenery.
Residents and tourists flocked to popular hill destinations including Ziarat, Hanna Urak, and nearby areas, where families and young people were seen taking photographs, playing in the snow, and enjoying the cold weather amid scenic surroundings.
Many visitors described the snowfall as a refreshing escape from routine life. “I have never seen Quetta this beautiful. The snow-covered mountains and roads look magical,” said Ayesha Khan, a visitor from Karachi, while enjoying snowfall at Hanna Urak.
Local residents also welcomed the lively atmosphere despite freezing temperatures. “Snowfall slows daily life, but it also brings happiness. Seeing tourists from other provinces enjoying Quetta feels encouraging,” said Muhammad Aslam, a shopkeeper in the city.
Tourist activity increased significantly in Ziarat, where pine-covered hills and roads turned completely white, creating scenes similar to Pakistan’s northern tourist destinations. Hotel owners, tea stalls, and roadside vendors reported a noticeable increase in visitors.
However, record snowfall across Balochistan disrupted normal life, blocking major highways and leaving travelers stranded in several districts. The Quetta-Ziarat Road was closed due to heavy snowfall, while traffic on several key routes came to a standstill, causing serious difficulties for passengers traveling through mountainous areas.
Adviser to the Chief Minister for Political and Media Affairs Shahid Rind said the Provincial Disaster Management Authority Balochistan launched large-scale rescue operations to assist stranded travelers and ensure public safety during severe weather conditions.
According to officials, hundreds of people, including women, children, and elderly passengers, were safely rescued. Close coordination between PDMA and allied departments helped prevent any loss of life despite prolonged snowfall and road closures.
Authorities confirmed that continuous clearance and rescue operations were carried out on the Quetta–Ziarat Road until all stranded vehicles and passengers were safely assisted.
Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti praised the PDMA and field teams for their dedication and professionalism under extreme weather conditions, announcing certificates of appreciation for officers and personnel involved in the rescue efforts.
Meanwhile, the National Highway Authority, in coordination with PDMA, initiated measures to restore traffic flow at critical locations including Lakpass, Khojak, and other key mountain passes.
The snowfall caused a sharp drop in temperatures across the province, intensifying public hardship. The situation was further worsened by ongoing gas load-shedding, particularly in remote and snow-affected areas, where residents continue to endure harsh winter conditions.
