Fresh flood hits Laxmipur: Electricity, roads disrupted, water crisis deepens

After just a few days of respite, relentless downpour over past two days has once again flooded Laxmipur, leaving many who had returned home from shelters displaced once more.

The heavy rainfall has submerged home, paved roads, forcing residents to seek refuge in shelters again.

Widespread damage to power lines has resulted in electricity outages across most areas of the district, including Raipur and other upazilas. Since late Friday night, more than 400,000 out of 550,000 customers have been living without electricity. Some areas have not seen electricity for a full day, leading to disruptions in mobile networks and increased hardship for local residents.

The prolonged blackout has also led to a severe shortage of clean water for drinking and household use. Many homes are facing water scarcity, and refrigerated food, such as fish and meat, is on the verge of spoiling.

Mohammad Asaduzzaman Khan, General Manager of Laxmipur Palli Bidyut Samiti, reported on Sunday morning that approximately 400,000 customers remain without electricity due to damage in electricity supply line caused by the heavy rains.

He explained that fallen trees and weakened poles have downed power lines across the five upazilas, and the continuous rain is delaying repair efforts. He assured that power would be restored once the weather improves and repairs are completed.

Meanwhile, sub-assistant engineer at Laxmipur office of the Power Development Board, Parikshit Roy, stated that despite the ongoing rainfall, crews are working tirelessly to repair broken lines and replace blown transformers to restore power across all areas.

Ramgati weather office recorded 139 mm of rainfall in past 24 hours. The Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) confirmed that while river levels have risen, they are still below the danger level.

However, there is a risk of further erosion due to rising water levels in the Meghna River.

BWDB Executive Engineer Md. Nahid-Uz-Zaman mentioned that efforts are ongoing to clear drainage canals in flooded areas to expedite water removal.

The weather forecast predicts continued rain and thunderstorms in several regions, including Khulna, Barishal, Patuakhali, Noakhali, Cumilla, Chattogram, and Cox's Bazar, with wind speeds of 60 km/h expected through Sunday evening. Authorities have issued cautionary signals for river ports in these areas.