Kurigram, Dec 14 (V7N)- The northern district of Kurigram is facing increasingly severe cold weather, with bitter winds and dense fog disrupting normal life and causing immense hardship for vulnerable populations. On Saturday morning, the minimum temperature in the district was recorded at 11.5 degrees Celsius, with forecasts indicating the likelihood of a cold wave after December 15.

The icy winds and persistent fog have left roads eerily quiet, as people avoid stepping out unless absolutely necessary. Vehicles are navigating with headlights on during the day due to low visibility. The situation is particularly dire in the remote char areas, where the impact of the cold is even more severe.

Hospitals across Kurigram’s nine upazilas are witnessing a rise in cold-related illnesses, including fever, cough, and respiratory issues. Low-income residents and displaced individuals are the hardest hit, struggling to keep warm in the absence of adequate clothing or shelter. Many spend sleepless nights in the biting cold, resorting to burning straw to ward off the chill.

Voices from the Ground
Asadul Islam, a rickshaw puller from Putimari in Chilmari upazila, shared his plight: "It is too cold to go out with the rickshaw, but if I don't, how will I feed my wife and children? I have no choice but to endure."

Anisur Rahman, from Jorgach in Ramna Model union, said, "I've had fever and cough for a few days and came to the hospital for treatment."

Alamin Mia, a farmer from Shukkur Bazar in Jatrapur union, recounted his struggles with work: "I am preparing Boro seedbeds, but the water is so cold that I can barely touch it. Still, I have to continue working to survive."

Impact on Cattle and Agriculture
The cold has also taken a toll on livestock, as animals struggle to endure the harsh conditions. Farmers, who must brave the cold to sustain their livelihoods, are finding it increasingly difficult to tend to their crops and cattle.

Weather Forecast
According to Subal Chandra Sarkar, Officer-in-Charge of the Kurigram Meteorological Office, the district recorded a minimum temperature of 11.5 degrees Celsius on Saturday morning. He warned that a cold wave might hit Kurigram after December 15, worsening the already difficult conditions.

Urgent Need for Support
With no significant warmth even during the daytime, Kurigram’s residents urgently need assistance. Warm clothing, blankets, and other forms of relief are essential to alleviate the suffering of those most affected. As the cold intensifies, timely intervention from both government and non-governmental organizations will be critical to protect the most vulnerable communities in this northern region.

END/MIB/AJ