GILGIT, Jan 9: The entire region of Gilgitis in grip of severe cold as chilly winds and snow have not only disrupted routine life but forced the people to remain inside.

The peaks of mountains are covered with snow as it has been receiving snowfall for the last several days which would continue till March.

The upper portions of the region have received heavy snow which is expected to continue till the month of March.

Due to abrupt change in the weather, seasonal diseases have broken out, affecting mostly children and the elderly.

The change in weather has led to increase in need for fuel and the demand for firewood has increased in the area and the people chop trees in forests to meet the energy needs.

However, the water flow in the rivers and streams is decreasing because of the freezing temperature, which led to decline in the generation of electricity and increase in loadshedding in many areas.

Gilgit, Skardu, Ghanche, Hunza-Nagir, Diamer, Ghizer are reeling under biting cold.

According to local met office wet spell in Gilgit would continue for next few days.