Dinajpur has been hit by an extreme cold wave, with the lowest temperature in the country recorded at a chilling 9.5°C on Monday. For the past week, temperatures have fluctuated between 10°C and 12°C, bringing widespread discomfort.
The cold, accompanied by light drizzle and persistent fog at night, has made mornings particularly tough for workers. During the day, the sun offers some brief respite, but cold winds from the north, blowing at 3 kilometers per hour, continue to make conditions harsh. The thick fog has led to poor visibility, with vehicles running with headlights on, even in daylight.
Low-income individuals, unable to afford adequate warm clothing, are facing great difficulty going to work, as the freezing temperatures and biting winds add to their struggle. Tofazzal Hossain, the head of the Dinajpur Meteorological Office, indicated that these conditions are likely to persist over the coming days.
The chilly weather has made outdoor activities almost unbearable, with many people choosing to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary. Streets and roads, which are usually busy, have emptied by the afternoon.
Agricultural workers, in particular, are finding it difficult to carry out their duties in the fields, causing significant setbacks to agricultural activities.
Liberty News’ local correspondent reports that according to Dr. Moshiur Rahman, a pediatric specialist at Dinajpur Children’s Hospital, weather-related illnesses are taking a toll, especially among children and the elderly. The hospital is overwhelmed, with an increase in cases of diarrhea, pneumonia, and respiratory issues, making it a tough time for both patients and healthcare workers.
LND/BG
