KATHMANDU: Daily life in Banke and other districts of the western Tarai has been affected by dense fog and cold weather conditions.
The biting cold has particularly impacted children, students, laborers, the poor, the helpless and senior citizens, locals said. Many residents have been unable to step outside their homes due to the cold.
Morning shops and marketplaces are opening later than usual, while markets begin to look deserted by evening as temperatures drop further.
Drivers have also faced difficulties operating vehicles due to reduced visibility caused by fog. “Driving has become difficult because of dense fog combined with severe cold,” said Ram Prasad Tharu, a resident of Nepalgunj-16.
The cold weather has also led to a rise in seasonal illnesses. According to Sanket Risal, Information Officer at Bheri Hospital, the number of patients suffering from asthma, pneumonia, cold, cough and fever has increased in recent days.
“More than 100 patients with pneumonia and cold-related illnesses are visiting the hospital daily,” Risal said.
Health officials have urged people, especially vulnerable groups, to take precautions as cold and foggy conditions persist in the region.
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