Cold wave disrupts life in Banke; local governments distribute firewood and blankets

December 31, Kathmandu: Daily life in Banke district has been affected due to extreme cold caused by dense fog, mist and a cold wave. All eight local governments in the district have started distributing firewood and blankets to protect people from the cold.

According to Rupan Gyawali, focal person at the District Emergency Operations Centre, a total of 1,080 blankets have been distributed so far. Janaki Rural Municipality distributed 800 blankets, Rapti Sonari 180, and Kohalpur and Khajura 50 each. Baijanath has also begun distribution, while 1,780 blankets remain in stock.

Firewood is being distributed at public places to allow people to warm themselves. Narainapur has distributed 10 bundles of firewood, while Baijanath and Rapti Sonari have distributed two bundles each. Nepalgunj Sub-Metropolitan City has also started providing firewood at busy public areas.

The Nepali Army has supported cold-affected people by supplying firewood in several locations. All local governments have announced winter holidays for schools. The District Disaster Management Committee estimates that around 176,000 people from 36,000 households may be affected by cold waves this winter.