Rajshahi: Normal life, particularly for labor-selling people and other marginalized groups, is being affected badly due to the continuous dropping of mercury levels in the region. Local meteorological office recorded the season’s lowest temperature at 7.0 degrees Celsius at 6:30 am today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the severe cold has taken a heavy toll on low- and middle-income groups. Day laborers, construction workers, van pullers, and battery-powered auto-rickshaw drivers have been compelled to head out early in the morning despite dense fog and icy winds in search of livelihoods. Low-income and homeless people are flocking to footpath stalls in search of affordable warm clothes.
Mijanur Rahman, a day laborer from Paba upazila who came to the Railway gate in the city looking for work, said that even after wearing two or three layers of warm clothing, his body shivers from the cold. He added that staying home is not an option, as his family depends on his daily income. Nizam Uddin, a battery-run auto-rickshaw driver, echoed similar concerns, saying that fewer people are traveling due to the cold, resulting in a sharp drop in passengers. He noted that earnings have declined while driving in such cold conditions has become extremely difficult.
Municipal service workers and other essential service providers continue to work despite the adverse climatic conditions. Sheikh Muhammad Mamun, Chief Conservancy Officer at Rajshahi City Corporation, said they are continuing waste collection to prevent public health risks. The cold wave with fog has also affected public health. Sources close to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital said there has been an increase in patients suffering from cold-related sickness over the past week, with children and elderly people accounting for a significant proportion of admissions. Health officials advised limiting outdoor exposure, particularly for vulnerable groups.
Meanwhile, sales of winter clothing have surged in footpaths, hawkers’ markets, and shopping centers across the city. Shops selling sweaters, jackets, shawls, and blankets have seen increased crowds.