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SOME parts of the country are in the grip of seasonal floods although water in some affected areas is receding. It is estimated that around two million people have been affected. The flood-affected people are in a state of misery and need immediate help. Death toll has risen to 501 and with rising water in some areas the suffering of the people is also increasing. In some places, the water level of river Padma was flowing 100 centimetres above the danger mark. Ferry communication, road and rail communication have been disrupted in the many parts of the country. Many roads have been washed away by floodwater and will require urgent repairing once the floodwater recedes. The government and non-government institutes should show alacrity to help the affected people. We should stand beside the flood-affected people and help reduce their sufferings. Women, children and elderly people are the worst sufferers of any natural disaster like flood. Many flood shelters are in a dilapidated condition and need improvement. Safe drinking water has always been the number one problem during and after flood. Besides, various kinds of water borne diseases spread their wings and affect the hapless people. As Bangladesh is located in a flood-prone zone, the people and the government should take all preparations and precautions to face the disaster caused by flood almost every year.
Rahmatullah Sumon
Badda, Dhaka