Flood death toll rises to 56 in seven districts

The death toll from floods, heavy rain, hill runoff and landslides in seven districts has risen to 56, according to the latest situation report of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief.

At least 39 people have been injured, while 10,854 people have taken shelter in 329 centres opened for flood-affected residents, the ministry said on Tuesday.

The affected districts are Khagrachhari, Rangamati, Bandarban, Cox’s Bazar, Chattogram, Moulvibazar and Habiganj. The disaster has affected 59 upazilas, 334 unions and 12 municipalities in the seven districts.

Cox’s Bazar recorded the highest number of deaths, with 31 people killed, including 18 local residents and 13 Rohingya. Chattogram reported 15 deaths, Bandarban six, Rangamati three and Moulvibazar one.

Of the injured, 24 were in Cox’s Bazar, 12 in Chattogram, two in Bandarban and one in Khagrachhari.

According to the ministry, Cox’s Bazar is among the worst-affected districts, with 10 upazilas, 71 unions and four municipalities hit by floods. One person remains missing there.

In Chattogram, 16 upazilas, 122 unions and four municipalities have been affected by flooding and waterlogging. Rangamati has reported flooding in nine upazilas, while all seven upazilas of Bandarban have been affected.

Moulvibazar reported flooding in three upazilas, while Khagrachhari and Habiganj also reported waterlogging in several upazilas.

The ministry said cash, rice, dry food, corrugated iron sheets and house-building assistance were being distributed in the affected districts.

A total of Tk 1.75 crore and 3,250 tonnes of rice have been allocated for the seven flood-hit districts, while dry food distribution is continuing.

The ministry said the remaining 57 districts have each received general allocations of cash and rice as part of wider humanitarian preparedness.

From July 7 to July 14, the government allocated Tk 4.60 crore and 8,950 tonnes of rice across the country as humanitarian assistance, it said.

Local administrations, the army and other agencies are conducting rescue, relief distribution and rehabilitation activities in coordination, the ministry said, adding that the situation is being monitored and further assistance will be provided if needed.