Sunday | 12 January 2025 | Reg No- 06
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Cold wave paralyses normal life in Pabna 

Published : Sunday, 5 January, 2025 at 12:00 AM  Count : 18
Naresh Madhu
PABNA, Jan 4: A severe cold wave sweeping across northern Bangladesh has brought normal life to a standstill, with Pabna experiencing its lowest temperature on record at 9.6 degrees Celsius. 

The chilly wind and dense fog have compounded the impact, particularly on vulnerable population such as daily labourers, slum dwellers, and those living in public spaces like bus and railway stations.  

Farm labourers, rickshaw-pullers, and low-income individuals who primarily work outdoors are among the hardest hit. Many have been forced to halt work due to the extreme weather. 

Azghar Ali, a rickshaw-puller in Pabna, shared, "People are avoiding markets due to the fog and cold, and pulling a rickshaw in this weather has become incredibly difficult." 
 
The dense fog has also disrupted transportation. Ferry services and the movement of water vessels have been suspended during the morning hours due to poor visibility, further complicating life for residents dependent on riverine and road communications. 
 
The cold wave has triggered a rise in cold-related illnesses, including pneumonia, asthma, and respiratory complications. According to Pabna General Hospital, 104 children have been admitted with cold-related diseases in the last few days. 
 
Child specialist Dr Nishit Kumar Kundu noted an alarming increase in cases of diarrhoea and other cold-related illnesses. "We are seeing a sharp rise in patients, both in hospitals and private clinics," he said, highlighting the strain on healthcare facilities. 
 
The cold and lack of sunlight are also affecting agriculture in the region. Dense fog and extreme cold are likely to hinder the natural growth of crops, including Boro paddy seedlings. Experts warn that a failure of cash crops could lead to unemployment among agricultural labourers, financial losses for sharecroppers, and increased poverty for marginal farmers.
  
In response to the crisis, social and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have begun distributing blankets to cold-affected individuals. However, the demand for aid remains high as the cold wave continues to affect large sections of the population.
  
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department in Ishwardi reported that temperatures may rise slightly over the next three to four days. However, another cold wave is expected to sweep through the region shortly thereafter. 
 
The ongoing cold spell has caused significant disruption to daily life, economic activities, and public health in northern Bangladesh. As relief efforts continue, authorities and organizations are working to mitigate the impact on the most vulnerable, while the region braces for the possibility of another cold wave in the coming weeks.



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