No respite from heat wave
The blistering heat of summer and high humidity made life unbearable for the people of the country, particularly those living in the capital. It is getting really difficult to commute to work during Ramadan because of the unbearable heat. What is worrying is that the prevailing spell of heatwave is likely to continue at some regions across the country. It may spread further in the next three to four days.
The streets of Dhaka city appear to be melting in the severe heat wave. With the onset of the summer season, oppressive heat has jeopardised the normal life of people belonging to various strata of life. Day-labourers, rickshaw and van pullers, agriculture labourers are bearing the brunt of the situation as they have to toil outside their homes defying the sweltering heat. How many people can remain indoors? People have to go out for various purposes. Both public and private officials and businessmen have to go to their respective workplaces.
Pullers of rickshaws that are plying the capital city are demanding high fares as they are getting awfully fatigued under the merciless sun. This has exposed the middle class people to pecuniary stress. There is no sign of rain for the past few days. There is no alternative but to withstand the hostile climatic condition prevailing in the country. Awareness can help a lot in this regard.
Climate change is a global reality and its adverse impact is being felt throughout the world, including Bangladesh. Rise in global warming, rise in ozone layer, greenhouse effect, emission of excessive carbon gas, depletion of forests and rise in sea levels are the ominous signs that are likely to play havoc with the climate change in the world. Bangladesh is one of most vulnerable countries in the world regarding adverse impacts of climate change although it has very little contribution to global warming.
The severe heat is also the cause of outbreak of various diseases, particularly diarrhoea. People must be alert so that dehydration does not occur. Drinking a lot of water, lemon beverage, consumption of watermelon and other seasonal fruits can resist dehydration. Doctors at public hospitals must treat the patients suffering from heat-related diseases with the utmost priority.
