THE ongoing flood crisis has intensified into a severe public health emergency, as reported in an English daily on Friday that in the last 24 hours alone, six lives have been lost, and approximately 3,000 people have been hospitalized due to waterborne diseases.
We are shocked with such tragic deaths in Feni, Noakhali, and Lakshmipur, which indeed highlight the dire conditions faced by those in flood-affected areas, particularly where basic necessities like clean drinking water are scarce.
With 52 deaths till today along with over 10 lakh families stranded and 54 lakh people affected across 68 upazilas, the scale of this disaster demands a robust and sustained response.
As per the report, the crisis is especially alarming in Cumilla, which has reported 1,606 cases of waterborne diseases.
The lack of access to fresh drinking water and water purification tablets has left thousands at risk of illnesses like diarrhea and skin infections.
In Feni’s Chhagalnaiya upazila, many residents are afflicted with diarrhea and skin diseases, but submerged areas have made it difficult to access health facilities.
Temporary health camps, such as the one at Chhagalnaiya Pilot High School, offer some relief.
However, many still remain stranded and without access to medical help.
Similarly, in Cumilla, conditions at shelter centers are challenging, especially with elderly residents struggling with poor sanitation and the spread of illness.
Given the severity of the situation, the government must intensify efforts to provide immediate relief.
Prioritizing the distribution of clean drinking water, water purification tablets, and essential medicines is essential in all affected areas.
Mobile medical teams should be dispatched to reach those in remote locations to ensure everyone receives necessary care.
Additionally, public awareness campaigns are vital to educating people about the importance of boiling water and maintaining hygiene during this critical time.
Beyond immediate relief, long-term measures are crucial to enhancing community resilience to such crises, including infrastructure improvements, better early warning systems, and strengthening health facilities in flood-prone areas.
In this crisis, it is imperative that the government, NGOs, and citizens unite to protect the most vulnerable and ensure that those affected by the floods receive the help they urgently need.
Only through collective action can we mitigate the impact of this disaster and prevent further loss of life.
