RANGPUR, May 5: Extreme hot weather, compound by frequent power outages, has made the lives of the people of Rangpur intolerable.
The district has witnessed a steep rise in the temperature level over the last few days, and the highest temperature recorded today (Tuesday) was 36.5 degree Celsius, according to the local met office. The situation might continue till the next rainfall, said an official.
According to sources there has been no rain over the last few days. The rivers, ponds, canals, the open wetlands and others water reservoirs in the city and other areas have virtually gone waterless. Consequently, the level of the ground water has gone deeper.
School goers, private and public office goers and the commuters have been facing a great problem in their respective workplaces on account of the persisting heat.
Suffering of people knows no bound. Low-income groups, including day labourers and rickshaw-pullers, are hard hit by the summer heat which forcing them to remain off their work. They were found taking respite under shades of trees.
Cashing in on the hot weather, the rickshaw-pullers charge passengers extra fares, the city dwellers alleged. In the midst of this intolerable heat the traffic congestion augmented commuters' sufferings manifold.
The city dwellers have to run after shades for a bit of comfort from sweltering heat. Roadside fruit shops remain crowded. Many a people were seen quenching their thirsts by drinking water from the shops.
Besides, the farm labourers are facing serious problem in harvesting boro paddy due to blistering heat. Many of them are falling sick owing to dehydration. Meanwhile, The Rangpur residents allege they are experiencing at least 6-7 hours of load shedding every day. As a result they are suffering a lot. The students, patients and the journalists are the worst victims.
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