Cold wave paralyzes life, surge in winter illnesses
- Update Time : 06:06:09 am, Friday, 31 January 2025
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The extreme cold of the Magh winter has once again brought life to a standstill in Joypurhat. Since Thursday afternoon, bone-chilling cold has gripped the entire district, accompanied by dense fog that has intensified the cold wave. Vehicles on highways are moving slowly with headlights on, while laborers venture out despite the harsh conditions to earn their livelihood.
From Thursday afternoon to Friday at 9:30 AM, the sun remained hidden, worsening the suffering of slum dwellers and the homeless. Farmers, in particular, are struggling to work in the fields.
Mizanur Rahman, acting officer of the Badalgachhi Weather Observation Center, reported that on Friday, the lowest temperature recorded in Joypurhat and neighboring Badalgachhi, Naogaon, was 10°C. The temperature has dropped compared to the previous day, and fog has thickened, resembling light drizzles.
Abul Hossain, a resident of Hichmi Bazaar in Sadar Upazila, described the situation, saying, “The cold is one thing, but the dense fog is making it nearly impossible to step outside. It feels like getting wet in the rain. Most people are staying indoors, but those like me have no choice but to go out for work. The roads are deserted, but I still ventured out—let’s see what happens.”
On the Joypurhat-Bogra regional highway, bus driver Alauddin shared his difficulties, saying, “Since Thursday afternoon, thick fog has persisted. We have to drive with headlights on even during the day, and there are hardly any passengers. If this continues, we might have to suspend bus services.”
Meanwhile, cold-related illnesses are on the rise. According to Joypurhat 250-bed General Hospital, the number of patients in the children’s and diarrhea wards has increased in recent days. Many are being admitted with colds, fevers, pneumonia, and diarrhea.
Dr. Rashed Mobarak Jewel, superintendent of Joypurhat General Hospital, warned that due to the harsh weather, children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable. He advised them to stay indoors as much as possible to avoid illness.
