Over 50,000 trapped by rising waters in Chandpur

More than 50,000 residents in Shahrashti Upazila of Chandpur have been trapped by floodwaters over the past few days as upstream flow continues to raise water levels.

Over 500 families have sought refuge in various relief centres across the area.

Shahrashti Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md Yasir Arafat said six unions in the southern part of the upazila have been severely affected, with approximately 50,000 people stranded due to the floods.

"So far, over 500 families have taken shelter in relief centres. As water levels keep rising, we anticipate more families will seek refuge. We are working to support these people and urge others to come forward with assistance," he said.

During a visit to several villages in the Suchipara Uttar Union on Monday, it was observed that most houses and roads were submerged. Fish ponds and cattle sheds were also inundated, causing distress among fish farmers.

At least 250 individuals have taken refuge at Suchipara Degree College. They have been staying at the shelter with their families, livestock, and poultry for the past three days, and many are concerned about potential looting of their homes in their absence.

Zakir Hossain Bepari, a flood victim at the shelter, said, "I brought my 60-year-old mother and the rest of my family here because our house was flooded. We are anxious about when the water will recede."

Another resident, Tania Akhter, stated, "We have been at this shelter with our children for two days. Our house is completely submerged, and we are uncertain about its condition."

Mahin Hossain, a resident of nearby Pathair village, said, "Both the north and south parts of our village are underwater. No help has reached us yet. We are appealing for government assistance."

Nazrul Islam, another resident of Pathair village, added, "Our area has been flooded for four days. Water from Comilla and Feni has inundated our homes. Although the water is flowing through the Dakatia River, it hasn't started to recede yet."

Local volunteer organisation Sajag, including Foyez Ahmed, has been distributing food supplies to those affected. 

"At this critical time, it is essential for everyone to step up and support those in need," Ahmed said.

Later, Chandpur Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kamrul Hasan and other local officials visited the Suchipara Degree College flood shelter and assured the affected people of government assistance.