GILGIT: At least six people were injured after a vehicle overturned in Skardu following intermittent snowfall across Gilgit-Baltistan (GB).

Furthermore, the road communication system remained suspended and many roads were blocked as the temperature dropped to -20°C in upper areas.

A police vehicle, carrying two police officials and four prisoners, was travelling from Skardu to Gilgit, overturned due to speeding at Jugulote Skardu Road near Talu village.

All six people on board the vehicle received injuries. Rescue 1122 personnel shifted the injured to a nearby government hospital.

According to police, the hilly areas of district Gil Skardu, Astore, Shigar, Kharmang, Ghanche, Ghizer, Hunza, Nagar, Diamer received 14 inches of fresh snow, causing increased cold waves.

Authorities said access to many remote areas was disconnected compelling locals to remain indoors.

Sajjad Hussain, a resident of Nagar, told Dawn that most roads including Karakoram Highway (KKH) Hunza and Nagar section were suspended and traffic on the roads was stopped on Friday morning.

Local volunteers and police placed mud on roads to avoid an untoward incident. The Baltistan division and Astore district received up to 14 inches of snow.

Local residents across the region and tourists faced difficulty in travelling towards their destinations. Yaqoob Tai from Ghizer said due to snowfall, there is a risk of slipping on the roads. All travellers have been requested to avoid unnecessary travel.

Published in Dawn, December 31st, 2022