A total of 16,488 houses in Burichang Upazila of Cumilla district were damaged during the recent flood in the country. The flood has devastated the shelters of many people in the area.
Many houses were swept away by the floodwater, and many people have lost the ability to rebuild their houses. While some have received assistance from the army and various private organizations, they have yet to receive any government allocation.
It was learnt that, the Gomti dam at Burburia village in Burichang Upazila collapsed on August 22, causing a devastating flood that partially or completely destroyed nearly 16,500 houses in the area. The most affected areas include Burburia, Berajol, Mohishmara, Indraboti, Kharataiya, Nanuar Bazar, and surrounding regions of Sholonal union in Burichang upazila.
Rozina Akhtar, resident Buruburia village, said my husband supports the family by plying rickshaw. The flood swept away all our household belongings. Often, we have to stay hungry. We can't afford to rebuild our house due to lack of money.
Her neighbour vendor Harun Mia, who is disabled, said that due to heart problems, I haven't been able to work as a vendor for almost six years. The flood has taken everything away. I received food assistance for a few days, but now I get nothing.
Burichang Upazila Nirbahi Officer Shahida Akter said the army and various NGOs have coordinated with us to provide assistance to the affected areas, including many sheets of tin and financial support. Some families have received as many as 65 bundles of tin along with cash assistance.
Cumilla District Relief & Rehabilitation Officer Mohammad Abed Ali said approximately 82,755 houses in 14 out of 17 affected districts have been partially or completely damaged. The total damage is estimated to be around Tk 1,084 crores, 14 lakhs and 50 thousand. Once the government allocation is received, assistance will be provided to the affected individuals for rebuilding their homes.
