Season's Lowest Temperature in Jessore, Public Life Disrupted by Bone-Chilling Cold
The season's lowest temperature has been recorded in Jessore today, which has severely disrupted public life. The Jessore Meteorological Office informed on Friday (January 02) morning that the temperature in the district has dropped to 9.8 degrees Celsius. The surroundings have been covered in dense fog since morning and the sun is not visible. The intensity of the cold is being felt even more due to the icy wind. Especially the rootless and low-income people are in extreme suffering.
Stagnation in Public Life
Due to the bone-chilling cold, the movement of people on the roads of Jessore has decreased. No one is leaving the house unless absolutely necessary. Rickshaw and van pullers are out on the streets but are passing idle time due to lack of passengers. Day laborers are unable to go to work, putting their livelihood at risk. Crowds of people have been noticed on the city footpaths to buy warm clothes, but many are returning empty-handed due to high prices.
Disruption in Traffic
Due to dense fog, traffic movement on Jessore-Benapole and Jessore-Khulna highways is being hampered. Drivers have to drive slowly with headlights on due to reduced visibility. As a result, long-distance buses are unable to reach their destinations on time. Railway communication is also being delayed slightly, according to station sources. Highway police have instructed drivers to drive with caution.
Rise in Cold-Related Diseases
The number of patients in Jessore General Hospital is also increasing due to severe cold. Especially children and the elderly are being admitted to the hospital with pneumonia, diarrhea, and respiratory diseases. There is no room in the children's ward of the hospital. Doctors are advising everyone to wear warm clothes and avoid stale food. The District Health Department has formed medical teams to deal with the situation.
Govt and Private Initiatives
Blanket distribution activities have started on behalf of the district administration to stand by the cold-stricken people. However, the victims complained that it is insufficient compared to the demand. Various social and voluntary organizations are also distributing winter clothes among the rootless people at night. The Deputy Commissioner of Jessore has called upon the wealthy to come forward in this disaster.
