Special Correspondent – Relentless torrential rains, mountain runoffs, and catastrophic landslides have claimed at least 54 lives and left dozens injured across southeastern and northeastern Bangladesh.
The severe weather conditions have severely disrupted lives, leaving over 600,000 people affected and cutting off entire communities.
According to the latest update released on Monday (July 13) by the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, at least 39 others have sustained injuries. The flooding has marooned approximately 155,311 families, submerging homes and crippling local infrastructure.
Widening Scope of the Disaster
The Ministry confirmed that seven districts are currently grappling with the aftermath of the deluge: Khagrachhari, Rangamati, Bandarban, Cox’s Bazar, Chittagong, Moulvibazar, and Habiganj. The devastation spans 59 upazilas, 334 unions, and 12 municipalities.
Cox’s Bazar has emerged as the worst-hit region, accounting for the highest casualties with 31 recorded deaths and 24 injuries. Chittagong followed with 13 fatalities, while Bandarban reported 6, Rangamati 3, and Moulvibazar 1.
Emergency Relief and Rescue Operations
In response to the escalating humanitarian crisis, the government has established 1,049 emergency shelter centers across the seven affected districts. Currently, 38,422 displaced individuals have taken refuge in these facilities.
Government aid, including rice, dry food packets, cash assistance, and baby food, is being actively distributed via local administrations.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister’s Relief and Welfare Fund has allocated supplementary financial aid to the hardest-hit districts.
The Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief stated that a well-coordinated operation involving local district administrations, the Armed Forces, Fire Service, and various volunteer organizations is underway to handle rescue missions, relief distribution, and initial rehabilitation.
Authorities have assured that necessary assistance will continue to be deployed as the situation evolves.