Floods, landslides kill 44 in Bangladesh, leave over 1 million stranded

Torrential monsoon rains have triggered devastating floods and landslides in southeastern Bangladesh, killing at least 44 people and leaving over a million stranded. The relentless downpour has disrupted life across seven districts, isolating thousands of families and damaging essential infrastructure like roads and communication lines. Power outages have plunged many areas into darkness, while submerged homes have left residents struggling to cook.

Rescue and relief operations are being hampered by the widespread destruction. The army and navy are deploying boats to deliver essential supplies like food, water, and medicine to cut-off communities. Disaster Management and Relief Minister Iqbal Hossain assured that the government is providing all possible support and urged affected residents to move to shelters.

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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.

The heavy rainfall also caused landslides in the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox's Bazar, resulting in the deaths of 16 refugees, including children. These camps, housing over a million Rohingya, are particularly vulnerable due to makeshift shelters on steep hillsides.

Bangladesh is highly prone to natural disasters, and scientists warn that climate change is exacerbating extreme weather events, leading to more frequent and intense floods and landslides. The current crisis highlights the growing vulnerability of the region to climate-induced disasters.

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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.