Govt prioritises post-flood rehabilitation in affected districts: Dulu

Govt prioritising post-flood rehabilitation in affected districts: Dulu

Disaster Management and Relief Adviser Asadul Habib Dulu has said the government is giving the highest priority to post-flood rehabilitation and is working in a coordinated manner to restore normalcy in the flood-affected districts.

Speaking at a discussion meeting at the Chattogram Circuit House conference room on Tuesday night, Dulu said the recent flash floods, triggered by unusually heavy rainfall, caused extensive damage to lives, agriculture and infrastructure in Chattogram, Cox's Bazar, Bandarban, Rangamati and Khagrachhari.

He said the Chattogram region recorded around 412 millimetres of rainfall in a single day—an exceptional weather event that led to severe flash flooding.

The adviser commended the joint efforts of the local administration, law enforcement agencies, the Bangladesh Army, public representatives and volunteers in responding to the disaster.

Dulu said the government is placing special emphasis on reviving the agriculture sector as part of the rehabilitation process, noting that the issue was given priority at an inter-ministerial meeting led by the Ministry of Local Government.

Highlighting post-flood health risks, he warned of the potential outbreak of water-borne diseases after floodwaters recede. He said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has already sent essential medicines, safe drinking water, water purification tablets and other medical supplies to the affected areas to help prevent and treat diarrhoea and similar diseases.

He added that local administrations have been instructed to regularly report on healthcare preparedness to ensure a swift response to any disease outbreak.

Dulu said all ministries and government agencies are working in close coordination to restore normal life in the affected areas. He instructed the relevant authorities to complete comprehensive damage assessments and accelerate rehabilitation efforts.

He also urged residents to remain alert and cooperate with the authorities in overcoming post-flood challenges.

Among others, Chattogram City Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain, MP Sayed Al Noman, Divisional Commissioner Dr Md Ziauddin, Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miah and Chattogram Press Club President Zahidul Karim Kochi addressed the meeting. Heads of various government departments were also present.