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๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡บ Australia /Disasters & Emergencies

Floods and landslides kill dozens in Bangladesh, millions stranded

From ABC Australia · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Torrential monsoon rains and subsequent floods and landslides have killed at least 50 people in Bangladesh, leaving millions stranded.
  • The disaster has submerged homes, disrupted daily life across seven districts, and hampered relief efforts due to power outages and damaged infrastructure.
  • Scientists attribute the increasing intensity of such disasters to climate change, exacerbating Bangladesh's vulnerability to extreme weather events.

Torrential monsoon rains have unleashed devastating floods and landslides across Bangladesh, claiming at least 50 lives and leaving millions stranded. The southeastern city of Chattogram and its surrounding areas are the hardest hit, facing severe food shortages and submerged homes.

Days of relentless rainfall have caused widespread disruption across seven districts, isolating thousands of families. Power outages, damaged roads, and broken communication lines have significantly slowed down rescue and relief operations. Many residents are struggling without cooking facilities, with floodwaters inundating their homes and kitchens.

Nurul Islam, a resident of Chattogram, described the dire situation, stating, "There is still water inside our home and we have no way to cook." He added, "The dry food we had has run out, and we spend the nights in the dark with our children because there is no electricity." Thousands are relying on non-perishable food items and emergency aid.

There is still water inside our home and we have no way to cook. The dry food we had has run out, and we spend the nights in the dark with our children because there is no electricity.

โ€” Nurul IslamA resident in the flood-affected area of Chattogram describes the dire living conditions and lack of resources.

Army and navy personnel are working to deliver essential supplies by boat to isolated communities. Disaster Management and Relief Minister Iqbal Hossain assured that the government is providing all possible support, including relief, safe drinking water, and medical supplies. He urged those whose homes are flooded to seek shelter.

The heavy rains also triggered landslides in Rohingya refugee camps in Cox's Bazar, resulting in 16 fatalities, including women and children. Bangladesh, a nation highly prone to natural disasters, faces increasing threats from extreme weather events, which scientists link to climate change.

The government is doing everything possible to support flood victims. Relief, safe drinking water and medical supplies are being distributed, and we urge people whose homes have been inundated to move to the nearest shelter.

โ€” Iqbal HossainThe Disaster Management and Relief Minister speaks during a visit to affected areas in Chattogram, assuring government support.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Australia in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.