Photo : BSS

BARISHAL, Dec 28, 2025 (BSS) - Public life in Barishal district has been severely disrupted as a bitter cold spell accompanied by icy winds continues to grip the region, causing immense hardship for low-income and working-class people.

According to the district meteorological office, the lowest temperature recorded on Sunday was 13.4 degrees Celsius, while Saturday saw the season’s lowest temperature at 12.4 degrees Celsius. Despite a slight reduction in morning fog, residents said the intensity of the cold has increased due to persistent freezing winds and the absence of sunshine for most of the day.

Locals reported that the bone-chilling wind has made the cold feel more severe than the actual temperature. Daily activities have slowed significantly, and fewer people are venturing out onto the streets. The situation has particularly affected day laborers, rickshaw pullers, and auto-rickshaw drivers, whose earnings have dropped sharply.

Sohel, an auto-rickshaw driver from the city’s Notun Bazar area, said passenger numbers have declined over the past few days due to the cold, making it difficult to earn a living. Similarly, Liton, a rickshaw puller from Sadar road, said strong winds and extreme cold have made driving exhausting, while passengers are scarce.

The sudden rise in cold intensity has also increased patient inflow at local hospitals. Children and elderly people are reportedly suffering from cold-related illnesses, putting additional pressure on healthcare services.

Pranab Kumar Roy, an observer at the district meteorological office, said that the lowest temperature of the season was recorded at 12.4 degrees Celsius, with the day’s highest temperature reaching 25.5 degrees Celsius. 

He added that the sun remained hidden until around 12:30 pm on Saturday, while light fog covered the entire district during the morning hours.

Meteorological officials forecasted that cold conditions may persist over the next few days, urging residents, especially vulnerable groups, to take necessary precautions.