Kushtia swelters as mercury hits 40.8°C

People in Kushtia are experiencing scorching summer heat as mercury was recorded at 40.8°C on Sunday.

The extreme heat has put the working population in great trouble. Due to the heat, people are unwilling to leave their homes unless it is an emergency.

The number of heat-related patients is increasing in the hospital.

Kushtia’s temperature had registered as 40°C on Thursday, 40.2°C on Friday and 41.2°C on Saturday.

Most of the tube wells are not getting water due to severe drought which has caused the groundwater level to drop. As an alternative, submersible pump installations have increased significantly.

These pumps are being installed by spending extra money. However, environmental experts say it is a bad sign for the environment.

Dr Saffat Hossain Rana, medical officer of Bheramara Hospital in Kushtia, said that the number of cold, fever, diarrhoea and skin diseases has increased due to the heatwave. Drink plenty of water to stay healthy this summer.

Liquid food should be taken at the same time. Eat more seasonal fruits. Do not go out in the sun unless necessary. If you feel very sick, consult a doctor immediately, he added.

Kushtia Islamic University teacher Dr Rezwanul Islam said: “Due to the drop in the underground water level, water is scarce. But alarmingly, we have entered into the competition of using underground water through submersible pumps. It is very harmful to the environment.

“We should reduce the use of underground water and ensure the use of river or canal water. If not, we will be in dire straits in the future. We have to be responsible for the environmental disaster,” he added.

Kumarkhali Meteorological Office in-charge Mamun R Rashid said that the highest temperature of this season was recorded in Kushtia district on Saturday. As this is going to be the hottest year, the temperature in the district may rise further.