SKARDU, Jan 1: Several localities of the Northern Areas are undergoing a cold spell and the miseries of the residents are multiplying as each day passes. The shortage of gas cylinders, kerosene oil and dry wood has badly hit the area where the temperature has already fallen below the freezing point.

The hilly areas of Astore, Ghizer, Hunza and Nagar are experiencing the coldest weather. The residents say they are short of firewood and the alternate fuel supplies have registered tremendous price hike making it very difficult for the poor to brave the chill.

The liquefied petroleum gas and kerosene oil are being sold at higher rates and their supply to hilly areas always remained short. The people have demanded that the local government should provide gas cylinders, kerosene oil and dry firewood on subsidized rates during the ongoing winter season. -PPI