Monsoon disaster in Bangladesh: At least 44 dead, over 1 million stranded

Severe monsoon rains affecting southeastern Bangladesh have caused floods and landslides. According to information provided by authorities, at least 44 people have lost their lives in the disaster, and more than 1 million people remain stranded.

Roads and bridges have been damaged due to the rainfall, which has negatively impacted life in seven districts, including Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Bandarban, Rangamati, Khagrachhari, Moulvibazar, and Habiganj. While transportation to some settlements has been cut off, numerous homes have been submerged.

There are serious issues with access to electricity, safe drinking water, and basic necessities in the flood-affected regions. Rescue teams report that operations are being hampered by damage to infrastructure, and some villages can only be reached by boat.

LOSS OF LIFE IN ROHINGYA CAMPS

It was stated that a significant portion of the fatalities occurred due to landslides in the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar. It was reported that 16 people lost their lives in the camps where Arakanese Muslims reside.

Makeshift shelters built on steep slopes face the risk of landslides during every monsoon season. Authorities announced that efforts are underway to relocate some families living in high-risk areas to safer locations.

It was stated that more than 267 thousand households are stranded due to the floods and landslides, and the number of people affected by the disaster has exceeded 1 million. The Bangladesh Army and Navy are delivering food, drinking water, medicine, and basic supplies to areas where transportation has been severed.

Bangladesh Minister of Disaster Management and Relief, Iqbal Hossain, visited the flood-affected areas in Chattogram and issued an evacuation call. Hossain said, “The government is doing everything possible to support flood victims. Relief supplies, safe drinking water, and medical supplies are being distributed. We urge people whose homes have been submerged to go to the nearest shelter.”

The continuation of rainfall in the region increases the risk of new floods and landslides. Authorities continue to issue warnings, particularly for those living in mountainous areas and refugee camps.

Bangladesh frequently faces floods and landslides during monsoon seasons. Experts point out that the climate crisis is making extreme weather events in the region more destructive.

News Source: 12punto