Stand by flood-affected people

The south-eastern region of Bangladesh, including Chittagong, has been severely affected by devastating floods. More than one million people have been affected, and over 44 lives have been lost. Many roads remain inaccessible, and thousands of families are still taking shelter in temporary shelters. Although floodwaters have started to recede in some areas and the overall situation is gradually improving, many families continue to live in inundated areas under extremely difficult conditions.

Many households have no food, while shortages of safe drinking water, baby food, and essential medicines have become critical. Cooking utensils and household supplies have been destroyed in numerous homes. In addition, more than 15,900 hectares of agricultural land have been damaged, and the livestock and fisheries sectors have suffered significant losses. The floods have also disrupted the education of thousands of students, forcing the postponement of several days of Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent examinations under the Chittagong Education Board.

At this critical time, it is our social and moral responsibility to support those in need according to our ability. We can contribute individually or work with trusted individuals and humanitarian organisations, such as As-Sunnah Foundation, by participating in relief efforts or volunteering. Through such initiatives, we can help deliver dry food, safe drinking water, oral saline, medicines, baby food, and financial assistance to affected communities.

At the same time, we should share only accurate and verified information about the flood situation. Recently, a video falsely claiming that a pregnant woman had taken refuge in a tree during the floods went viral on social media. We must refrain from spreading such rumours or unverified content. Misinformation creates confusion and undermines public trust, discouraging people from supporting those who genuinely need assistance.

Md. Maherab Hossain Rotno

Student, Dhaka College.