Panchagarh, Dec 05 (V7N) – The northern district of Panchagarh, often referred to as the ‘daughter of the Himalayas’, is experiencing a sharp rise in winter severity much earlier than usual. Its close proximity to the Himalayan range means the cold season typically arrives ahead of the rest of the country—however, this year winter has arrived before the end of monsoon and is intensifying at a faster pace.

For several days, temperatures in the district have been fluctuating between 11°C and 13°C. On Friday (December 5), the Tentulia Meteorological Observatory recorded a minimum temperature of 12.1°C at 6 am, with humidity at 100 percent, indicating dense fog and heavy moisture in the air.

The sudden cold has also disrupted tourism. Hundreds of visitors who traveled to Tentulia to catch a glimpse of Kanchenjunga were seen waiting since morning due to thick fog that blanketed the area.

Locals say the rapid temperature drop has increased the hardships of low-income groups, especially day laborers and agricultural workers who must continue working outdoors. Many poor families are struggling due to a lack of adequate warm clothing.

A visit to different parts of the district revealed that winter relief distribution has not yet begun on any major scale. Only a few small, scattered initiatives have taken place so far. Cold-stricken residents urged authorities and private organizations to start distributing warm clothes immediately as temperatures continue to drop.

Jitendranath Roy, Officer-in-Charge of the Tentulia Meteorological Observatory, said, “The temperature was recorded at 12.1 degrees Celsius at 6 am today. Due to cold winds blowing from the Himalayan region, temperatures in this area are fluctuating. There is a possibility of further temperature decline next week.”

With colder days ahead, residents fear the situation may worsen unless timely winter aid reaches those most in need.

END/SMA/AJ