Devastating floods over several weeks in Bangladesh have resulted in at least 59 deaths in August, according to the National Disaster Response Coordination Center (NDRCC) under the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief.
In its latest update on Saturday, the center reported that 59 people, including 41 men, six women and 12 children, have died as a result of the ongoing floods. Most of the severe flooding has occurred in the southeastern Greater Noakhali region of the country.
A brickyard and a car are half submerged in floodwater in Chittagong division, Bangladesh, August 29, 2024. /CFP
Most of the deaths occurred in the southeastern districts of Noakhali, Cumilla and Feni. Meanwhile, the flood situation in parts of the northeastern Sylhet region is rapidly deteriorating, with rivers inundating large areas and disrupting the lives of millions.
More than 5 million people have been affected by the floods, which have hit 11 of the country's 64 districts and caused extensive damage to life, property and crops.
Flood conditions in several southeastern districts are reportedly improving as waters recede. However, approximately 697,000 people in these districts remain stranded, according to reports.
A flood-affected family dries clothes and essential items soaked in floodwater on the roof of a house in Chittagong Division, Bangladesh, August 29, 2024. /CFP
Chief Advisor of the interim government of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, urged all concerned parties to continue their efforts in rescuing stranded individuals, providing emergency healthcare and supporting the victims.
Authorities have dispatched disaster response teams to conduct rescue operations, distribute relief materials and oversee shelters where flood-affected people are staying.
(Cover: A flooded village in Chittagong Division, Bangladesh, August 29, 2024. /CFP)