Phulbani: Normal life was disrupted as people shivered in nail-biting cold after mercury level fell to five degrees here in Kandhamal district Sunday. Interestingly, Phulbani recorded less temperature compared to Daringbadi that is known as ‘Kashmir’ of Orissa.’ While mercury level prevailed at five degrees in Phulbani, Daringbadi experienced 6.5 degree temperature. Cold waves swept the entire region, sources said.
Residents preferred to remain indoors till 9 in the morning. They were seen leaving hesitatingly for work. Many were seen huddled around bonfire to beat extreme cold. While clouds prevailed for a few days, mercury level dropped low Sunday, sources said. Villagers and farmers were the worst affected.
Farmers found it hard to leave for work while vegetable vendors faced the same fate. Intense cold also compounded the woes of homeless and poor people who took shelter under shops and trees. It also affected animals and birds. Many birds were found lying dead in nullahs and forests due to extreme cold.
Meanwhile, tourists found it funny and flocked to many places for picnics. Tourists from various regions visited places like Daringbadi, Belgarh, Dasingbadi, Katramala, Putudi, Pakadajhor, Urmagarh, Mandasarkuti.
Cold wave will prevail till February and March, officials said. Locals demanded that the administration distribute shawls and blankets to poor farmers and families in the district. PNN
