Heavy rains and upstream water surges have caused flash floods across Chattogram and Sylhet divisions, leaving millions trapped in their homes over the past two days. At least five people have drowned, and ten others are missing as rivers overflowed, flooding vast areas and submerging entire neighborhoods. Railway services in both divisions have been suspended, leading to the cancellation of 26 trains.
The situation is particularly dire in Cumilla, Noakhali, and Feni, where the Muhuri and Feni rivers continue to swell. Districts like Laxmipur, Brahmanbaria, Rangamati, Khagrachhari, Moulvibazar, Habiganj, and Cox’s Bazar have also been severely affected.
According to Sarkar Udoy Raihan, executive engineer at the flood forecasting centre, rainfall is expected to decrease today, with water levels anticipated to start receding in the next couple of days. However, more than 3.6 million people remain trapped due to the floods, as reported by the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing.
In Cox’s Bazar, three people, identified as Amjad Hossain, 22, Rabiul Alam, 35, and Coching Rakhine, 50, have drowned in Ramu. Meanwhile, in Cumilla, ten people are reported missing following flash floods that have devastated villages. In Feni, over 300,000 people are stranded in the town and six upazilas, with roads becoming impassable.
Government data reveals that approximately 1.2 million people are stranded across the affected districts, with thousands taking refuge in 2,246 shelters. Emergency services have been activated, including 492 medical teams and significant food and aid allocations.
Communication networks have also been hit hard, with over 1,500 cell phone towers going offline. The Department of Posts and Telecommunications is working to restore connectivity using V-Sat units.
The government has deployed rescue teams from the army, navy, and border guards, along with medics and volunteers, to assist in relief efforts. A hotline has been established for those in need of assistance: 0255101115.
As floodwaters continue to rise, residents are urged to stay informed and follow instructions from local authorities.