Photo: Messenger
Karthik's arrival in the northern district of Gaibandha signals the onset of winter, gradually making its presence known in various upazilas from dusk until dawn.From 5 am to 8:30 am, a dense fog blankets the landscape, adorning blades of grass and rice leaves with delicate dewdrops.
During this time, roads throughout the district witness a leisurely pace of movement, with vehicles such as easybikes and motorcycles making their way through the misty ambiance.
Many speculate that the intensification of winter may be in the offing due to the current fog. They note that running a fan during the night has become impractical, and people are opting for heavier blankets to combat the chilly temperatures. However, the advent of thick fog and severe winter conditions is yet to materialize.
Meanwhile, farmers are engrossed in cultivating winter vegetables in preparation for the season. A variety of early winter produce, including radishes, cauliflower, cabbage, beans, gourds, tomatoes, and red vegetables, have been sown.
Nazrul, a resident of Arif Kha village in Sadar Upazila, expressed that the thickness of the fog in the early days of Kartik this year is unlike what they've witnessed in recent times. He believes the fog serves as a pleasant indicator of the impending winter.
Imam Abdul Baki, from a local mosque, commented on the notable drop in temperatures and the arrival of fog, suggesting that winter may be on its way. He noted that there was heavy rainfall a few days ago, followed by a brief period of warmth, and then the arrival of morning fog. In light of these changes, it appears that the traditional six seasons of Bangladesh may be shifting somewhat, creating a sense of reversal.
Easybike driver Milon regarded the fog as a reliable sign of winter and accepted the minor disruptions it caused in traffic, all while appreciating the pleasant morning weather.
Yunus, a government employee taking a morning stroll, expressed that fog is a natural occurrence in the month of October. While it typically settles in slowly, this year it seems to have arrived a bit earlier than expected, adding to the intrigue of the season's change.
Messenger/Siam/Fardin