A catastrophic flood, described as the worst in recent memory, has submerged 11 districts across the country, including Cumilla, Feni, Chattogram, Khagrachari, Noakhali, Moulvibazar, Habiganj, and Brahmanbaria. The disaster, triggered by continuous heavy rainfall and water flowing downstream from upstream regions, has claimed the lives of 18 people and displaced over 4.9 million.
Disaster Management and Relief Secretary Md. Kamrul Hasan shared these details during a press conference at the Secretariat on Saturday. Despite the grim situation, he mentioned that the floodwaters are gradually receding, offering a glimmer of hope.
According to the Relief Secretary, the flood has directly impacted 4,938,159 people across 944,548 families in the affected districts. The death toll stands at 18, with fatalities reported as follows: 4 in Cumilla, 1 in Feni, 5 in Chattogram, 3 in Noakhali, 1 in Brahmanbaria, 1 in Lakshmipur, and 3 in Cox's Bazar.
To assist those affected, 3,527 shelters have been opened, providing refuge to 284,888 displaced individuals. In response to the crisis, the government has allocated 352 million takas to the 11 flood-stricken districts. In addition, 20,150 tons of rice and 15,000 packets of dry and other food items have been distributed. The government has also earmarked 35 million takas each for the purchase of baby food and cattle feed, ensuring that both the vulnerable and the livestock are cared for during this disaster.
The flood has caused widespread devastation, and while the situation is beginning to improve, the road to recovery will be long and challenging for the millions affected.
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
