Rohingya arrival rate declines to 100 from 745 per day: UNHCR

UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has estimated average arrival rates of Rohingyas have dropped from 745 per day in November to 100 per day so far this month, reports UNB.

"As the refugee emergency in Bangladesh enters its fourth month, people are continuing to arrive from Myanmar. However, the pace of the influx has now slowed," said UNHCR spokesperson Andrej Mahecic at press briefing in Geneva on Tuesday.

Two-thirds of the new arrivals in the last week said they came from Buthidaung in Myanmar's northern Rakhine state.

Meanwhile, a quick refugee assessment by UNHCR and 13 international and local partners in Bangladesh has found that the refugees have developed strong support networks.

Refugee women, men, boys, girls, elderly and persons with disabilities in Kutupalong, Nayapara and Kerontoli/Chakmarkul refugee sites were interviewed to identify the priority concerns and needs, and to find out about coping mechanisms and consider possible solutions.

The findings of the assessment will guide 2018 interventions and help improve conditions, said the spokesperson.

Refugees surveyed expressed a number of worries. These included feeling unsafe at night given weak shelters and a lack of lighting, and concerns about general safety.

The survey also found that some children have to walk longer distances to fetch water and bring firewood.

Parents and children want access to education and more safe places for children to play.

"Refugees cite continued feelings of depression and rejection, especially among the elderly and disabled. Many young people are worried about their uncertain future," Mahecic said.