QUETTA: Heavy rain lashed most parts of Balochistan, including its capital, on Thursday.

The rain caused power outage and suspension of internet and phone services in several districts of the province.

The rain continued lashing Quetta on the third consecutive day on Thursday and the city faced a flood-like situation because of dilapidated condition of sewerage system. The rainwater, accumulated on roads, could not be drained out. The rainwater entered shops and houses, especially in low-lying localities.

Reports reaching here suggested that scattered to widespread thunderstorm / rain along with isolated heavy falls and gusty winds occurred over parts of Gwadar, Turbat, Washuk, Awaran, Khuzdar, Pishin, Qila Abdullah, Qila Saifullah, Mastung, Harnai, Ziarat, Barkhan, Zhob, Sherani, Musakhel, Loralai, Kohlu, Dera Bugti, Bolan, Kalat, Sibi, Naseerabad, Jhal Magsi and Jaffarabad districts.

Flash flooding in hill torrents of the districts was reported.

The rain caused tripping of the main 220-KV transmission line —Sibi-Quetta main supply and dispatch line — due to which electricity supply to over 10 districts was suspended on Thursday night Later, electricity was restored to parts of the Quetta city from alternative sources.

Published in Dawn, March 4th, 2016