The flood situation in Bangladesh's Bandarban District worsened on July 12 after six consecutive days of heavy rainfall, flash floods from upstream, and rising water levels in the Sangu and Matamuhuri rivers, leaving more than 100,000 people affected, according to local authorities.
Floodwaters have inundated 29 of the district's 34 unions, submerging thousands of homes across more than 500 villages. Officials said over 100,000 residents are now in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.
More than 5,000 people living in landslide-prone areas have been evacuated to safer locations, while over 4,600 residents are taking shelter in 54 evacuation centres.
Following overnight heavy rainfall and renewed upstream flows, fresh flooding was reported in Bandarban town as well as the upazilas of Thanchi, Ruma, Rowangchhari, Lama, and Alikadam.
Flooding has severely disrupted road communication between the district headquarters and the upazilas, as well as with the rest of the country. In several areas, boats have become the only means of transportation, while power outages and mobile network disruptions have further worsened conditions for local residents.
The District Relief and Rehabilitation Office said that 220 emergency shelters had been prepared to respond to flooding and possible landslides.
According to the district meteorological office, 88 millimetres of rainfall were recorded during the 24-hour period ending at 6:00 p.m. on July 12, with rainfall expected to continue through the following day.
Meanwhile, as of 10:00 a.m. on July 12, the water level of the Sangu River had risen to 16.81 metres, exceeding the official danger level, while the Matamuhuri River measured 12.13 metres, according to the Bangladesh Water Development Board.
The Bangladesh Army, Fire Service, police, and volunteers are continuing rescue and relief operations as authorities remain on high alert over the risk of further flooding and landslides.
Ref: The Daily Star
