State minister fears another spell of flood in August, September

State Minister for Disaster Management and Relief Md Mohibur Rahman has said Bangladesh may witness another spell of flood in August or September.

“We are taking preparation as per the directives of the prime minister,” he said while speaking at a press briefing held at the secretariat.

Regarding the situation of ongoing floods, the state minister said around 2.0 million of people in 15 districts were affected by the flood caused by torrential rains and onrush of upstream water.

Sylhet, Sunamganj, Netrakona, Moulvibazar, Habiganj, Rangpur, Jamalpur, Gaibandha, Feni, Rangamati, Bogura, Kurigram, Sirajganj, Lalmonirhat and Cox’s Bazar are the worst-hit districts, he said.

So far, the government has allocated a total of 8,700 tonnes of rice, Tk 31.0 million in cash, 58,500 sacks of dry food, Tk 6 million for baby food and Tk 6 million for fodder for flood-hit districts, he said.

Flood-affected people took refuge in 36,223 shelters, he added.

“Several districts have been partially flooded,” said the minister.

The government is working on the flood-affected areas, he said adding the southern portion of the country may witness flood.

“I saw in the newspapers that there was no food in some places. For this, we will speak directly to the deputy commissioners concerned,” he said.

All necessary items were given to the parliament members, deputy commissioners and Upazila Nirbahi Officers as per their demand and there is no risk of relief crisis, he added.

Replying to a question, the minister said they think the allocation in the flood-hit areas is adequate.

The minister is expected to visit the flood-hit areas in Tangail and Sirajganj on Sunday.