Flood situation worsens in Laxmipur, 2 deaths reported

The flood situation in Laxmipur has worsened on Tuesday due to rising water levels in river, with two reported deaths.

Though the flood conditions have slightly improved in areas adjacent to the Meghna River, but about 90% of the district, including Laxmipur district town, remains submerged. Most of the roads in the district went under knee-deep in the floodwaters.

The deceased Hridoy, 14, drowned in the floodwaters as a strong current washed him away in Char Lawrence village, while Abdul Malek, 70, died of pneumonia at a shelter in Lahar Kandi area. Local UP member Abdul Malek confirmed deaths.

Sadar Upazila Executive Officer Md. Arifur Rahman said, "Despite a slight decrease in rainfall, the internal areas remain submerged, with canals, roads, and fields merging into one. Some areas experiencing water levels from neck-deep to overhead. This has severely disrupted the district's road communication. Following the deterioration, around 27,700 people are taking refuge in various shelters."

Due to a lack of boats, government relief supplies have not yet reached remote areas. Claims have been made that government relief supplies have not reached the 13th and 14th wards of Lakshmipur Municipality, and several areas in Sadar Upazila, including Bangakhna, Gorinagar, Neyamatpur, North Joypur, and Radha Pur. However, the administration claims that relief supplies have been sent to all shelters, and various non-governmental organizations, including student groups, have distributed sufficient relief materials and are awaiting further distribution.

There is a severe shortage of drinking water in the affected areas. The Fire Service is working tirelessly to rescue stranded women and children. The district administration has distributed cash assistance of Tk 26 lakh and 509 metric tons of rice, along with dry food supplies. Agricultural and fisheries resources have been almost completely devastated.

In an emergency meeting of the District Disaster Management Committee, chaired by District Commissioner Suraiya Jahan, it was decided to form disaster management committees with representatives from different social groups, including students, to address the ongoing crisis.