Is Bundelkhand Under a Severe Cold Wave? Orange Alert Issued!
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- A cold wave is affecting Bundelkhand with an orange alert in effect.
- Authorities have implemented school closures and adjusted timings.
- Community bonfires are being set up for those in need.
- Low visibility continues to hinder transportation.
- Farmers are advised to protect crops from frost damage.
Bhopal/Chhatarpur, Jan 5 (NationPress) A severe cold wave has gripped the entire Bundelkhand region, impacting districts in both Madhya Pradesh and the neighboring Uttar Pradesh.
Thick fog and piercing northerly winds have complicated daily activities for the locals, while reduced visibility has hampered both road and rail transport. Nineteen district authorities have announced school closures, while others have adjusted school opening hours.
The Chhatarpur district administration has instructed municipal bodies and gram panchayats to set up community bonfires at vital public spots, including canal junctions and busy intersections, to offer relief to the homeless, nighttime travelers, and laborers.
The local Meteorological Department (IMD) office in Bhopal has issued an orange alert for all districts in Bundelkhand for the upcoming 48 hours, cautioning about the continuation of extreme cold conditions.
Districts under this alert comprise Chhatarpur, Datia, Tikamgarh, Niwari, and Panna in Madhya Pradesh, along with Mahoba and Banda in Uttar Pradesh.
Visibility has drastically reduced during early morning and night hours, endangering commuters and leading to transportation delays. “Khajuraho's visibility was recorded at merely 50 meters,” stated weather experts.
Sadly, the harsh weather conditions resulted in one fatality on Sunday when an individual succumbed to the bitter cold at the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Inter-State Bus Stand in Chhatarpur. However, local authorities have not verified whether the death was directly due to the extreme cold.
Meteorologists link the ongoing cold snap to frigid winds originating from northern India, which are expected to persist for several more days.
Agricultural specialists and departmental officials have raised concerns that the freezing climate might jeopardize standing crops, particularly wheat and pulses. The department has urged farmers to ignite small bonfires along the boundaries of their fields at night to create a protective layer of smoke and warmth, reducing frost damage.
Rural areas are facing the most severe impacts, with thick fog affecting both humans and livestock. Cattle herders are struggling to find grazing grounds, while residents find it difficult to perform outdoor tasks.
Authorities have urged the public to take necessary precautions, stay indoors during peak cold hours, and report any individuals in distress. Relief efforts, including the distribution of blankets in certain regions, are being coordinated by district administrations.