Severe heatwave disrupts daily life and infrastructure in Kurigram

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A stifling heatwave has paralyzed normal life in Kurigram, where high humidity levels are compounding the effects of temperatures ranging between 35 and 36.5 degrees Celsius. Meteorological data from the Rajarhat weather station indicates a steady climb in temperatures since May 29, reaching a peak of 36.5 degrees Celsius on Monday. Experts note that while the mercury readings remain within a specific range, the excessive moisture in the air has made the conditions particularly unbearable for residents.

The oppressive heat has hit manual laborers hardest, with day laborers, agricultural workers, and rickshaw pullers bearing the brunt of the extreme conditions. Across the district, the intensity of the sun has caused asphalt on several roads to soften and peel, creating hazardous transit conditions. In the Anandabazar area of Ulipur upazila, the melting road surface has trapped the wheels of passing rickshaws and auto-rickshaws, complicating local transportation.

Street activity in both urban and rural areas has significantly decreased during the afternoon hours as residents opt to remain indoors. Those forced to work outdoors, such as local farmer Sekendar Ali, report struggling with intense fatigue, dizziness, and persistent thirst despite frequent water breaks. Rickshaw operators, including Zobaidul Islam, describe the mid-day heat as physically debilitating, making it increasingly difficult to navigate the sun-scorched streets.

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Health officials are now raising alarms regarding the rising risk of heat-related illnesses. Kurigram Civil Surgeon Swapan Kumar Biswas has warned that the current conditions increase the threat of heatstroke, alongside an uptick in cases of fever, colds, and diarrhea. He urged the public to consume plenty of fluids and to avoid non-essential outdoor travel during the peak heat hours of the afternoon.

The outlook for the coming days suggests little immediate relief. According to Subol Chandra Sarkar, acting officer of the Rajarhat weather observation center, temperatures are expected to remain stagnant for the next several days. While the region is currently grappling with the heat, forecasts indicate a possibility of light to moderate rainfall between June 4 and June 5, which may eventually provide a reprieve from the persistent high temperatures.