2 sisters die in flood evacuation boat capsize in Chakaria

Two sisters were reported dead after a small boat capsized while they were heading to a safe place amid rising floodwaters in Chakaria upazila of Cox’s Bazar on Friday.

The victims were identified as Hasnatul Jannat Jharna, 13, and Shawrin Moni, 7.

The accident occurred around 10:30am in Rasulabad area under Baraitali Union.

Local residents confirmed, farmer Abdul Malek was taking his wife and three daughters to a safe shelter after floodwater had submerged their home due to heavy rain and upstream runoff.

Strong winds made the boat overturn before reaching its destination.

Other family members swam ashore. However, Jharna was swept away by the current. Shawrin and her e elder sister Jerin Moni (9) faced submersion injuries.

Shawrin and Jerin were admitted to hospital. Shawrin later died while undergoing treatment.

Fire Service personnel launched a rescue operation after receiving the information. Jharna’s body was recovered after nearly four hours of searching, at around 1:30pm.

Station Officer of Chakaria Fire Service and Civil Defence Didarul Haque confirmed the recovery of Jharna's body following the rescue operation.

Chakaria Upazila Nirbahi Officer Shaheen Delwar said heavy rainfall over the past five days has inundated vast low-lying areas of Chakaria, Matamuhuri and Pekua. He said many people remain stranded, while disrupted road communication has forced residents to rely on boats despite the risks posed by the adverse weather.

SU/SA