Cold Weather disrupts life in Banke

BANKE: The ongoing cold wave has significantly disrupted life in the West Terai region. Areas such as Nepalgunj, Khajura, and Narainapur in Banke have been enveloped in dense fog and frigid temperatures since morning, resulting in a marked decrease in public activity in urban and market areas. The number of vehicles on the roads has diminished as the cold continues.

In Nepalgunj, the cold wave persists for approximately two hours each morning, creating particularly challenging conditions. Local resident Ram Suhawan Yadav noted that many residents, including himself, have opted to remain indoors due to the severe cold. Others in the vicinity only go outside when absolutely necessary.

Daily wage earners have been particularly affected by the harsh weather. Ramdin Godiya, a resident of Duduwa Rural Municipality-4, expressed that the inability to work due to the cold hampers his ability to provide for his family. "If this situation continues, we will face a crisis," he remarked. Many daily wage earners in the region have migrated from the hills and nearby towns in India.

The cold has had a notably adverse effect on vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, daily wage workers, and those living in poverty. There has been a rise in illnesses, with increased cases of asthma, pneumonia, common colds, and fevers.

Dr. Sanket Risal, an information officer at Bheri Hospital, reported a surge in cases of cardiac and kidney diseases, as well as pneumonia among children and the elderly. The cold has further worsened the conditions of patients suffering from chronic illnesses.