Heatwave, power cuts worsen public suffering

Bangladesh has fallen under an intense heatwave after a brief spell of rain, with temperatures rising steadily and daily life increasingly disrupted. Cases of heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses are on the rise, while shortages of safe drinking water have been reported in several areas. Frequent power outages have further compounded the crisis.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has warned that temperatures are likely to climb further from midweek. Working-class people—particularly day labourers, rickshaw pullers and construction workers—are among the worst affected, with many falling ill and losing income.

Doctors say cases of dehydration, dizziness and vomiting are increasing, with children and the elderly most at risk. Health experts advise avoiding unnecessary outdoor exposure, drinking plenty of water and taking extra care of vulnerable groups.

Forecasts from leading weather platforms indicate that temperatures could reach 36°C to 38°C in Dhaka between 21 and 25 April, with “excessive heat” alerts already issued for the capital. High humidity may make conditions feel 4 to 5 degrees hotter than recorded.

Water scarcity has emerged in parts of the north due to falling groundwater levels, while in the south, drying ponds have worsened the situation. Meanwhile, rising electricity demand and fuel shortages have led to prolonged load-shedding—up to 8–12 hours in rural areas—while outages are also increasing in Dhaka.

The combined impact of extreme heat and power cuts is making life increasingly unbearable, particularly for children, the elderly and the sick.