Over two million children in eastern Bangladesh are at risk as the region faces its worst flooding in 34 years, UNICEF has warned. The catastrophic floods, triggered by unprecedented monsoon rains, have affected 5.6 million people, with major rivers overflowing in Chattogram and Sylhet Divisions. Over 52 people have been reported dead, and more than 500,000 individuals are seeking shelter after rising waters submerged homes, streets, and fields.
Many families are stranded without food or emergency relief supplies. Government personnel and volunteers are conducting rescue operations, but access remains difficult in some areas. As the monsoon season continues, the situation is expected to worsen, affecting more people in the coming days.
“The devastating floods in eastern Bangladesh are a tragic reminder of the relentless impact of extreme weather events and the climate crisis on children,” said Emma Brigham, Deputy Representative of UNICEF Bangladesh. “Many children have lost loved ones, homes, and schools and are now destitute. UNICEF is on the frontlines providing essential supplies, but more funds are needed to prevent further devastation.”
UNICEF has been on the ground since the disaster began, delivering life-saving supplies like water purification tablets, jerry-cans, and oral rehydration salts. However, the needs are immense. Immediate assistance is required for safe drinking water, hygiene kits, emergency latrines, sanitary pads, and healthcare services, especially for newborns and pregnant women.
This flooding follows recent emergencies, including earlier floods in northern Bangladesh and Cyclone Remal in May, affecting over 13 million people nationwide. UNICEF is urgently seeking $35.3 million to support life-saving interventions for children and vulnerable populations.
As climate change continues to increase the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, UNICEF emphasizes that the climate crisis is fundamentally a child rights crisis, urging global leaders to take immediate action.