Dhaka, 22 August 2024 - ActionAid Bangladesh expresses deep concern over the ongoing flood crisis that has severely impacted 8 districts of Bangladesh, including Cumilla, Feni, Chattogram, Khagrachhari, Noakhali, and Moualvibazar. The floodwaters, originating from rising river levels in the northeastern and eastern regions of the country and exacerbated by ongoing heavy rainfall, have affected around 3 million people, as per information from the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief and media reports.
Tragically, six deaths have been reported so far due to drowning, as the affected communities face numerous challenges, including displacement, loss of homes, and livestock. Women and children, being the most vulnerable, are particularly at risk, struggling with the severe crisis of safe drinking water and limited access to medical services and food. The disruption of roads and communication has further escalated their plight, making it difficult for them to reach safety and essential resources. The collapse of the sanitation system in many areas has heightened the public health crisis, disproportionately affecting these groups.
In response, ActionAid Bangladesh has already been engaged in ongoing assessments and coordination with local authorities to support relief efforts. Our immediate goal is to provide dry food, a dignity kit, clean and safe drinking water, and oral saline to 7,500 flood victims in at least 30 centers in Noakhali. Additionally, we are planning to distribute multipurpose cash grants, dignity kits, and hygiene kits among the impacted communities at this stage.
ActionAid Bangladesh remains committed to standing with the people in every humanitarian crisis. Our success is measured by our ability and will to support those in distress, and we are committed to working hand-in-hand with the community, government, civil society, international partners, and all stakeholders to overcome this challenge and build back better. Due to transboundary river sharing, water management has become an issue, negatively impacting local communities who are already in a vulnerable state due to the adverse effects of climate change.
