Severe flooding in northern Bangladesh has resulted in the deaths of at least five people and left over 100,000 stranded, officials reported on Sunday. The flooding, caused by relentless heavy rains and torrents from upstream, has significantly impacted Sherpur, one of the most severely affected districts, where rising water levels have submerged new areas and displaced thousands of families.
Local authorities are concerned about potential widespread damage to agriculture, particularly to rice fields and crops, as many homes and roads are submerged under several feet of water. Villages remain cut off, leaving residents in dire need of rescue. “I have never seen such flooding in my life,” lamented Abu Taher, a resident of the district.
In response to the crisis, army personnel have joined rescue operations using boats and helicopters to deliver emergency supplies and evacuate stranded individuals. However, the situation is complicated by collapsed bridges and submerged roads, making it challenging for local authorities to reach affected areas. Sherpur district administrator Torofdar Mahmudur Rahman stated, “Our priority is to evacuate people to safe shelters and provide them with essential supplies.”
Concerns are growing regarding the long-term effects on agriculture as rising water levels threaten rice crops, crucial for the region’s economy. The national weather office has warned of more rain in the coming days, raising fears of further flooding. This year alone, Bangladesh has faced multiple flooding incidents, with a recent report estimating that August’s floods in eastern Bangladesh caused over $1.20 billion in damages and resulted in more than 70 fatalities.
In response to the ongoing crisis, the United Nations and its partners have initiated a $134 million humanitarian appeal to provide urgent relief to communities affected by the persistent floods and cyclones in Bangladesh.
