Jhabua (Madhya Pradesh): In view of prevailing cold wave conditions, the civic body and the district administration have arranged bonfires at key locations across the city. Free Press persistently brought the issue of inadequate bonfire arrangements to the attention of municipal officials.

Following this, CMO Sanjay Patidar directed the Public Works Department to establish bonfires at strategic locations, including the bus stand and district hospital. The newly arranged bonfires have quickly become a vital resource for city dwellers, with pedestrians and shopkeepers alike.

To counteract the severe cold wave, the collector has announced a change in school timings, moving all government and non-government schools in the district to start at 9 am. As December brings severe cold, with temperatures dropping between 7 to 10 degrees Celsius, the demand for woollen clothes has surged. Residents are taking precautions against the chill.

The market buzzes with the sale of Garadu, Jalebi and hot milk, popular among locals enjoying these treats from hotels and handcarts. Hot beverages like cardamom and ginger tea are also in high demand.

Meteorological officer Rajesh Kumar Tripathi noted that this year’s cold is more intense than last. Health experts urge the community, especially the young and elderly, to prioritise a balanced diet.