RANGPUR: The arrival of a bone-chilling cold wave has severely disrupted life in the northern region, compelling residents to remain indoors and forcing vehicles to navigate foggy roads with headlights on throughout the day. The cold snap has brought a significant drop in temperatures, with the gap between minimum and maximum temperatures narrowing to a mere 4 to 6 degrees Celsius, causing discomfort among the population.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the local Meteorological Office reported that the region experienced its lowest temperature of 10.6 degrees Celsius in Dinajpur today. Other areas recorded minimum temperatures of 12.5 degrees Celsius in Rangpur, 12.4 degrees in Saidpur, 11.6 degrees in Tentulia, 11 degrees in Rajarhat, and 12.5 degrees Celsius in Dimla. Maximum temperatures fell significantly, ranging between 15.2 degrees and 18.6 degrees Celsius. Dense fog and cloud cover, coupled with a persistent cold wind, have exacerbated the situation, affecting vulnerable groups such as the poor, elderly, and children.
The Head of the Rangpur Meteorological Office, Md Mostafizar Rahman, indicated that the cold wave is expected to persist over the next 24 hours. The harsh weather conditions have led to an increase in cold-related illnesses, including coughs, fevers, and asthma, as reported by local hospitals and health facilities. Medical personnel are actively providing necessary health services to affected individuals.
In response to the crisis, district and upazila administrations, alongside NGOs and socio-cultural organizations, have ramped up efforts to distribute warm clothing to those in need. The government has allocated 25,000 blankets for Rangpur district, with 19,000 already distributed among the affected population. Efforts to provide relief were highlighted by Rangpur Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Rabiul Faisal, who distributed blankets to the Bede community in the outskirts of the city.
The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) has expressed concerns about the potential impact of the cold wave and foggy weather on Rabi crop plants. Agriculturist Md Obaidur Rahman Mondal from the DAE's regional office advised farmers to irrigate Boro rice seedbeds at night and use polythene covers to protect seedlings from cold damage. Despite the challenges, the situation remains manageable, with agricultural officers assisting farmers in mitigating the effects on crops.
Reports from remote and char areas, including Rangpur, Kurigram, Lalmonirhat, Gaibandha, Nilphamari, Dinajpur, Thakurgaon, and Panchagarh, indicate that the cold wave has significantly affected daily life, with residents struggling to cope with the plummeting temperatures.