A spell of intense heat since early April has made life difficult across the capital, with scorching sun and hot winds disrupting daily routines and increasing hardship for working people.
As temperatures rise throughout the day, moving outdoors has become increasingly uncomfortable. Many people were seen on Monday trying to cope by seeking shade or cooling themselves with water and cold drinks.
Daily wage earners and low-income groups are among the worst affected, as they continue to work outdoors despite the harsh conditions.
Rahman Mia, a daily labourer in his 60s, said the situation has become more challenging than before.
“I have spent my life working hard, but this heat is becoming unbearable. At this age, it is even harder to cope,” he said.
Like him, many working people in the city say their suffering has intensified due to the heat. They struggle to support their families on limited incomes, while rising expenses for water, drinks and medicine have added to their burden.
A day labourer in Banglabazar said: “We have to work in the heat all day. Even at home, there is no relief. Our bodies are soaked in sweat, but our earnings remain low. We cannot even afford treatment when we fall sick.”
Latif Mia, a rickshaw puller in Raisaheb Bazaar, said the heat has reduced his ability to work.
“As soon as the sun rises, the heat becomes intense. We get tired quickly and feel dehydrated. Still, we have to stay on the road to earn enough to pay the daily rent for the rickshaw,” he said.
A van driver, Karim, in Sadarghat, said transporting goods in such weather has become increasingly difficult.
“Carrying heavy loads in this heat is exhausting. Some suggest working at night, but there are not always enough customers then. We have to work during the day to survive,” he said.
Ashiq, a roadside vendor, said the heat has also affected his business.
“Fewer customers come in this weather, and sitting in the sun all day makes me weak. My income is already limited, and now I have extra expenses for water, drinks and medicine. It’s a very difficult time,” he said.