QUETTA, March 3: Gusty, dusty and icy winds continue to blow throughout Quetta Valley and other parts of central, northern and southern Balochistan for the second consecutive day on Monday forcing the people to remain indoors.

The strong winds from the Iranian deserts and icy breezes from Siberia, brought the mercury to an unprecedented low — minus 9 degree Centigrade.

Powerful winds continued to blow all day paralyzing life in the city. Offices, shopping centres and educational institutions and even roadside hotels wore a deserted look. Most of the water pipes burst due to freezing cold suspending water supply to homes and offices. PIA flights from and to Quetta were also cancelled owing to poor visibility. And no national newspapers were delivered to homes and offices.

Similar reports were coming in from Mastung, Kalat, Pishin, Loralai, Zhob, Sibi and Kachhi.

Although it was the first day of schools and colleges after winter vacations, attendance was very thin.