103 Cold-Related Deaths in Rangpur Over 3 Days as Severe Weather Strikes

Rangpur division has been hit hard by an intense cold wave, leading to a surge in cold-related illnesses and fatalities. According to the Rangpur Medical College Hospital, 103 people have died due to cold-related ailments between 1 and 3 January, with 1,421 new patients admitted to the hospital during this period. Most of the casualties occurred in the medicine and pediatric wards, where 37 patients succumbed to the harsh conditions.

The Rangpur Meteorological Office reported alarmingly low temperatures across the division, with Nilphamari’s Saidpur at 10.5°C and other areas like Rangpur and Kurigram experiencing temperatures just above 11°C. The cold wave, combined with dense fog, is expected to persist for the next five days, making the cold feel even more intense.

The cold has had a significant impact on low-income communities, especially those along the Teesta, Dharla, and Jamuna rivers. Efforts are being made to protect livestock and animals, and relief measures have been put in place, including the distribution of 12,500 blankets and a fund allocation of Tk48 lakh for warm clothing.