Standing by flood-hit people in Sylhet

A large number of people in Sylhet and Sunamganj are faced with a humanitarian crisis because of a flood that has left many areas of the north-eastern region inundated for the past few days. Heavy rain and the onrush of water from the upstream have triggered the flood that has damaged homes in several parts of both the districts. This is one of the worst flooding for Sylhet residents in a decade and a half. Many people have already taken refuge in flood shelters. They have been facing a severe food and drinking water crisis as tube-wells are now under flood water. Also, power outages for days have severely disrupted their normal lives.
All the major rivers of Sylhet region are reported to be flowing above their danger marks. It is feared that if the water does not recede fast, fresh areas might go under water. With the receding of flood water, various water-borne diseases such as diarrhoea may break out soon in the flood-hit areas. In this situation, the authorities concerned should come forward with all necessary help for the flood-hit people as early as possible.
Abu Elias Linkon,
Banasree, Dhaka,
lightening_sparkle@yahoo.com