Cold Wave Intensifies in Khunti: Administration’s Inaction Blamed

A sudden and severe cold wave has descended upon Khunti district, leading to a noticeable drop in temperatures and intensely cold mornings and nights. The pervasive chill forces residents indoors by early evening. Despite the harsh conditions, there’s a notable lack of administrative action, with no blanket distribution drives or arrangements for public bonfires initiated. The plight of the poor and vulnerable, including laborers sleeping in public spaces like roadsides and bus stands, has worsened significantly across Khunti, both in its urban center and surrounding villages. This year’s delayed response contrasts sharply with previous years, where the district administration would typically establish bonfires as early as the first week of November. Locals express frustration over this administrative indifference, highlighting that essential support, like blankets and bonfires, is missing. Even at the Gram Panchayat level, elected officials and block administrations have remained inactive, even as meteorological reports indicate a further decline in temperatures. Concerned citizens are calling on the district administration for immediate intervention, emphasizing the need for accessible bonfires and a widespread distribution of blankets to protect the impoverished and homeless. Social organizations have echoed these appeals, advocating for prompt and humane measures to ensure no individual is left to shiver through the cold nights. Regarding the lack of blankets, the Block Development Officer for Torpa confirmed that the supplies have not yet arrived. Similarly, the Circle Officer for Torpa indicated no guidance has been issued by the district administration concerning the setup of bonfires.