MINGORA, Dec 28: A severe cold wave has gripped Swat after the entire valley received rain and snowfall on Tuesday.

The surrounding hills received a heavy snowfall and the chilly weather kept the inhabitants in the upper parts of the valley confined to their homes.

The continuing rain and snowfall caused a sudden rise in the prices of fire-wood, coal and liquefied petroleum gas. The price of liquefied gas rose from Rs45 to Rs50 per kg, while coal price was increased from Rs12 to Rs15 per kg. The price of firewood also registered an increase although many localities here are getting the supply of natural gas.

The consumers of gas have been complaining of low pressure for some time. They said that the gas pressure was so low that it could not be used for cooking. People are also complaining of shortage of drinking water in the localities of Bandr, Yousufabad and Landikas and demanded that the authorities should ensure regular supply of water to the areas.