Thousands of people stranded as floods hit Feni

Due to incessant rain and onrush of upstream water from the Indian hills, thousands of people in Fulgazi and Parshuram upazilas of Feni have become stranded by floodwaters.

Flood control embankments of Muhuri, Kahua and Silonia rivers have broken in at least 20 points, inundating more than 30 villages.

The flood-affected people in the inundated areas are suffering from a shortage of food and pure water. Additionally, mobile communication is being disrupted due to power outages. Government aid hasn’t reached many places.

At least 30 villages, including Deopara, Daulatpur, Gainbari, Napitkona, and Uttar Sreepur in Fulgazi, and Shaldhar, Aloka, Jangalghona, and Danialpur in Parshuram, have gone under water. Due to the sudden rise in water levels, many have left their homes and taken refuge in higher ground or at others’ houses.

Fulgazi Upazila Nirbahi Officer Farhia Akter said, “At least 75,000 people have been affected by this flood. 1,200 individuals are staying in shelters. Dry food, saline, and water purification tablets have been distributed among the flood-hit people. Cooked meals are also being provided.”

Parshuram Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Arifur Rahman said, “15 villages are inundated. 3,000 people are in shelters, and at least 7,000 people are stranded by the water. In Shaldhar, the homes of 15 families have been completely washed away.”

Deputy Commissioner Saiful Islam said, “2,000 packets of dry food have been distributed among flood-affected people in Fulgazi and Parshuram upazilas.”