A severe heat wave, prevailing for the last couple of days, has paralysed normal life in Khulna region.
No respite from the blistering heat is in sight in the region as the temperature is rising continuously.
People, particularly groups of the lower-income, are the worst sufferers of the sweltering temperatures. Due to the dire situation, people are not leaving their homes unless there is an emergency.
Mazed Mia, 53, a rickshaw puller in the city, told BSS, "Today, I was compelled to break fast as I was severely thrust while pulling my rickshaw."
"My daily income has been reduced to a great extent as there is less number of passengers on the street in the last couple of days," he said.
Echoing Mazed's statement, Md Arman, 56, a vegetable vendor, said the scorching heat was not only affecting them physically but also financially.
Eid shopping was also being hampered due to the scorching heat.
A few customers were seen from around 11 am to 2pm in the city's shopping malls due to the heat wave.
On Monday, the country's highest temperature was recorded at 39 degrees Celsius in Chuadanga. The highest temperature in Khulna city was recorded at 37 degrees Celsius, while 38 degree Celsius in Jashore, according to the Khulna Metrological Office.
Talking to BSS, Assistant meteorologist and Officer-in-Charge of Khulna Met Office Amirul Azad, said, "Mild to moderate heat wave is sweeping over Khulna, Rajshahi, and Chattogram divisions . . . The situation may continue in the next three to four days."
Keeping pace with the rise in temperatures, the number of diarrhea patients in and around the city has seen a sharp rise over the last week.
Physicians said children and elderly people are at high risk of dehydration, jaundice, and heatstroke during the heat wave.
Dr. Khan Moniruzzaman, a child specialist at Khulna Shisu Hospital, told BSS, "To avoid diarrheal diseases, drinking pure water is a must. Foods should be kept at a normal temperature and habits like hand washing, cleanliness, and refraining from staying outside for long are also essential."
"If anyone becomes sick, he/she should immediately be taken to a nearby hospital," he concluded.
Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS)