Since August 2024, the eastern part of Bangladesh has been experiencing severe monsoon conditions and massive floods, which has affected over 18 million people and left more than 1.2 million families trapped. In response, The Salvation Army in the territory is providing rapid flood relief.
The flooding has struck several districts of Bangladesh, including Feni, Noakhali, Comilla, Lakshmipur, Brahmanbaria, Cox’s Bazar, Khagrachari, Chattogram, Habiganj and Moulvibazar. The support team on the ground consists of district officers, corps officers, employees and community members, who are distributing food relief to flood victims at selected locations.
Critical priority areas for relief
In the wake of the devastating floods, thousands of families have been displaced, with significant damage inflicted upon property, crops and infrastructure. Albert Sarker, the Bangladesh Development Coordinator, has emphasised the critical priority areas for relief, which include search-and-rescue operations, food supply, access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services, provision of shelter, distribution of non-food items (NFI) and ensuring protection to those impacted by the disaster.
The government, military, private sector and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are providing relief assistance, and The Salvation Army is coordinating with district and sub-district authorities in regard to this response.
Addressing immediate needs
A relief team led by Victor Modal, an experienced relief worker, is now in Moulvibazar District and is distributing food and NFIs to 1,050 households (approximately 5,250 individuals). Every family receives rice, daal (lentils), cooking oil, salt, water, water purification tablets, soap and a bucket. These items address the immediate needs of the families and contribute to their well-being during this challenging time.
The Salvation Army in Bangladesh has been actively involved in responding to numerous disaster situations and is committed to providing ongoing support to the many people who have been affected by the recent floods.