Rehabilitating Dhobaura flood victims

Dhobaura Upazila, located in Mymensingh district, recently experienced one of the most devastating floods in its history. Approximately 50,000 people across seven unions in the upazila were affected. This 15-day flood severely damaged nearly all paddy fields, fish farms, and paved roads. In Dhobaura, around 4,300 fish farms were flooded, causing 3,000 farmers to lose approximately 2,200 tonnes of fish, according to the district fisheries department. Nearly 1,200 hectares of Aman paddy and 18 hectares of vegetables were destroyed, amounting to Tk 12 crore in losses, as reported by the local agricultural office. Since 90 per cent of the area's population relies heavily on agriculture and fisheries, the flood has left residents in a dire situation.

Although the water has receded, numerous challenges have emerged. Roads, bridges, and public transportation have been severely damaged, complicating travel and evacuation efforts. A large number of homes have been destroyed, leaving thousands in need of immediate assistance. Urgent rehabilitation efforts are essential, including infrastructure repair (roads and bridges), financial aid, housing for those who have lost their homes and cannot afford new ones, and agricultural recovery support such as seeds, tools, and training to help farmers restore their livelihoods. These interventions are critically needed for the people of Dhobaura.

We urge everyone to extend support in this crisis, contributing whatever possible to aid those affected.

Md Shihab Akanda

Student, Department of Law

University of Dhaka

[email protected]