A persistent cold wave has gripped Rangpur division for several days, intensifying the suffering of poor and marginalized people and threatening their livelihoods. The severe cold has led to a rise in cold-related illnesses, including pneumonia, fever, diarrhoea and respiratory complications. Over the past 24 hours, nine patients—five elderly men and women and four children—died while undergoing treatment for cold-related diseases at Rangpur Medical College Hospital. Hospitals across the region are also facing growing pressure as patient numbers rise. Hundreds of children suffering from cold-related illnesses are visiting the outpatient department of Rangpur Medical College Hospital every day, crowding the facility along with their attendants.

Source: Dhaka Tribune January 11, 2026 16:11 UTC