103 people die of cold-related illnesses in Rangpur in 3 days

Severe cold has led to a surge in patients suffering from cold-related illnesses across Rangpur division, with 1,421 new patients admitted to Rangpur Medical College Hospital over the past three days and 103 deaths recorded from 1-3 January.

Brigadier Ashiqur Rahman, director of the hospital, confirmed the figures today (3 January), noting a significant increase in patients in the medicine and pediatric wards, where 37 patients died.

The Rangpur Meteorological Office reported extremely low temperatures in the division this morning, with Nilphamari's Saidpur recording 10.5°C, Panchagarh 10.6°C, Thakurgaon 10.7°C, Rangpur 11.2°C, Kurigram 11.5°C, Gaibandha 11.8°C, and Lalmonirhat 12°C. Dense fog is expected in the coming five days.

Mostafizar Rahman, in charge of the Rangpur Meteorological Office, said due to Rangpur division's proximity to the Himalayas, the cold is felt more intensely here compared to other parts of the country. Over the past three days, the region has experienced severe cold due to icy winds and dense fog. Moderate to dense fog is expected in northern areas from late night until morning.

Nighttime temperatures may drop slightly, while daytime temperatures will remain almost unchanged. The narrow difference between day and night temperatures is making the cold feel more intense, he added.

Authorities said the cold has severely affected daily life, particularly for low-income communities along the Teesta, Dharla, and Jamuna rivers. Measures have been taken to protect livestock, poultry, and zoo animals, including providing vitamin supplements and covering sheds.

The district Relief and Rehabilitation Officer Golam Kibria said 12,500 blankets have already been distributed, and Tk48 lakh has been allocated to provide warm clothing in eight upazilas to prevent cold-related suffering.