QUETTA: Two people were killed when lightning struck in the Gulistan area of Qila Abdullah on Monday, amid ongoing heavy rainfall affecting Quetta and northern parts of Balochistan. Low-lying areas across the province have been inundated, creating severe difficulties for residents.
The downpour, accompanied by strong winds, has intensified the cold in the region. According to the Meteorological Department, heavy rain and gusty winds are expected to continue until April 9. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert, urging people to stay away from low-lying areas during the rainfall.
In the Qila Abdullah incident, lightning struck a house in the Gulistan area, killing Bashir Ahmed and Zubair Ahmed, while Muhammad Shafi suffered serious injuries. The heavy rain has affected other areas of Balochistan, including Dhader, Sibi, Bolan, Pishin, Qila Abdullah, and Khanozai. In Qila Saifullah, rain and hail have caused extensive damage to crops and orchards.
Following the recent rains, Chief Minister of Balochistan, Sarfraz Bugti, directed emergency measures. Deputy Commissioner Quetta Mehrullah Badini and DG PDMA conducted an emergency inspection of flood channels at Sera Gurgai, Hanna Urak Bypass, and Main Hanna Road. Machinery was deployed immediately to clear water pathways and prevent further damage.
Rescue and relief operations by the district administration and PDMA are ongoing, and the government remains fully alert to manage any emergency situations. Local residents have thanked the government, PDMA, and district administration for their timely response, while authorities have been instructed to continue monitoring the situation and provide all possible assistance to the affected population.
