Photo : BSS

By Sabbir Ahmed

LALMONIRHAT, Nov 29, 2025 (BSS) - The severe cold has already descended on Lalmonirhat, a district located near the foothills of the Himalayas. 

With the Teesta River flowing beside it, the cold in this region becomes more intense than in many other parts of the country. 

As temperatures continue to drop, the old-clothes markets across the district are experiencing a surge in buyers, particularly low-income families seeking affordable warmth.

From early morning until late at night, bustling crowds are seen in markets, railway stations and busy intersections. Stalls selling second-hand jackets, sweaters, blankets, coats, mufflers and gloves are drawing shoppers from all walks of life. 

Traders said that because the quality of imported old clothes is good, the appeal now extends beyond low-income groups to middle-class and well-off buyers looking for quality warm clothing at lower prices.

Every winter, thousands of seasonal traders set up temporary stalls on footpaths and in markets across Lalmonirhat Sadar, Aditmari, Kaliganj and Patgram upazilas. For many families, this seasonal trade becomes a crucial source of income during the colder months.

Abdul Latif, a mobile old-clothes trader at Aditmari railway station, said,
"Every year in winter, I trade in old clothes. I collect quality items from Syedpur and Dhaka. People come from far because the clothes are good. Sales are strong every day. Not just low-income buyers—many well-off people also buy winter wear from here."

Traders report that buyer turnout increases sharply as temperatures fall. Many shopkeepers are bringing in new consignments to meet the growing demand. Seasonal vendors say they earn between Taka 1,500 and Taka 2,000 per day and can make profits ranging from Taka one lakh to Taka 5 lakh over the entire winter season. Once the cold ends, most return to their regular occupations.

Local residents note that the proximity to the Teesta causes icy winds to sweep through the district, intensifying the cold. Winter typically begins in late October and lasts until the end of February, creating additional hardship for low-income households. As second-hand shops offer affordable and good-quality warm clothing, families—especially those with elderly members—are increasingly relying on them.
The Kurigram Meteorological Office has forecast that the cold spell will continue to intensify. Last week, the minimum temperature in Lalmonirhat stood at 14.5°C, dropping to 14°C this week. Officials said temperatures may decrease further in the coming days.

With winter tightening its grip, the old-clothes markets of Lalmonirhat continue to provide both warmth for buyers and livelihood for thousands of seasonal traders.