Flash flood leaves 35,000 people marooned in Kurigram

As reported by this daily on Tuesday some 35,000 people in Roumari upazila of Kurigam district have been marooned due to flash flood caused by recent heavy showers and onrush of water from hills. Reportedly, fifteen villages in Datbhanga union of the upazila were flooded afresh on Monday as rivers flowing the areas continue to swell. 

The dexterity that has been executed by Bangladesh in the last several years in disaster preparedness deserves plaudits. However, the ongoing situation in Kurigram certainly exposes our helplessness to fight against natural calamities. The flood-hit people of Kurigram city are also facing food and water crisis. The shortage of fodder is also becoming severe. Waterborne diseases are also spreading rapidly. 

The government and NGOs should 

gear up efforts to reduce the volume 

of the effects of flash floods

Reportedly, twenty two kilometres of roads in Shaulmari, Roumari and Jadurchar Unions have been submerged in the recent flood. People are using boats to move from one place to another amid knee-to-waist deep water.

The authority has so far allocated Tk 3 lakh for providing relief materials to the flood victim. Although the government promised to provide relief, many did not get it as road communication has been cut off due to the worsening flood situation. Considering the flood situation in Kurigram, the government should implement pragmatic measures to protect lives and livelihood.

The government and NGOs should gear up efforts to reduce the volume of the effects of flash floods. The authorities concerned should construct embankments along the rivers to protect the local people from flood in future.

Authorities concerned should take necessary measures to rehabilitate the flood-affected people and provide them with financial support. Besides, we should all work together to rehabilitate them. There is no denying that our country is currently lacking in resources to stand against flood and river erosion. However, we believe with proper implementation of new technologies, we can save lives, properties and assets and limit the grave consequences of flood and river erosion.