Residents of Kalat region in Pakistan's Balochistan, including women and children, protested against the severe shortage of gas and electricity amid ongoing harsh winter season.

The protesters, grappling with the continuous absence of essential utilities and faced with high bills despite the lack of services, blocked the Quetta-Karachi highway, causing significant traffic disruptions, reported The Balochistan Post.

“Kalat is the coldest region in Balochistan, and during this harsh winter, we are facing unbearable difficulties due to the constant suspension of gas, exorbitant bills, and prolonged, unannounced electricity load shedding,” protesters were quoted as saying by the news portal.

Local authorities, including Additional Deputy Commissioner Siraj Baloch, SHO Kalat Habib-ur-Rehman Babai, and Additional SHO Kalat Levies Abdul Karim Mengal, negotiated with protesters.

Following the negotiations, the protesters dispersed from the spot.

Protesters said they would continue their protests if demands are not met.