A biting cold wave has swept across Bangladesh, bringing with it challenges that have disrupted daily life for millions.
From the northern districts of Rajshahi and Rangpur to the southern coast of Cox’s Bazar, the impact of the chill is being felt everywhere. Low temperatures, combined with dense fog and cold winds, have created a harsh environment that is testing the resilience of people across the country.
In Rajshahi, where the temperature has plummeted to 9.8°C, rickshaw pullers, day laborers, and others dependent on outdoor work are struggling to cope. Thick layers of clothing are a common sight, yet they barely keep the cold at bay. The usually bustling streets have quieted as the chill discourages movement, forcing many to stay indoors.
For those who can’t afford to pause their work, the cold has added an extra layer of difficulty to their already demanding lives. In areas experiencing the cold wave, particularly Rajshahi, Kushtia, and Bogura, low temperatures have left people shivering as they navigate their daily routines.
The fog, which began blanketing the country earlier this week, has worsen the situation. In many districts, thick fog has disrupted transportation, slowing vehicles to a crawl and delaying commutes. For farmers and vendors heading to early morning markets, visibility issues are creating both inconvenience and danger.
In urban areas, the chill is compounded by the absence of sunshine. In the capital, Dhaka, maximum temperatures have dropped dramatically, hovering around 16–17°C in recent days. With the sun hidden behind dense clouds, the cold feels even more severe. This sudden drop has left residents unprepared and scrambling to adapt.
Low-income groups, particularly those without proper housing or warm clothing, are the hardest hit. For many, the decision to stay warm or earn a livelihood is a daily battle. As the cold wave grips 13 districts, including the eight in Rangpur division, stories of struggle are emerging from every corner of the country.
In some areas, local charities and community organizations have stepped in to distribute blankets and warm clothing, but the need far outstrips the supply. Healthcare centers, too, are seeing a surge in patients suffering from cold-related ailments such as respiratory infections and hypothermia, adding strain to an already stretched system.
Families gather around makeshift fires, sharing warmth and community spirit. In markets, sellers innovate by setting up stalls closer to residential areas to save customers the journey. Schools and workplaces have adapted schedules to allow for the slow, foggy mornings.
While temperatures in southern regions like Cox’s Bazar remain slightly higher—around 16–17°C—the chill is still unusual for these typically warmer areas, highlighting the widespread impact of the current cold wave.
Weather forecasts suggest that temperatures may rise slightly in the coming days, but the dense fog is expected to linger. Until then, life will remain challenging for many, particularly for the vulnerable who continue to brave the cold for survival.
