People are seen trapped in floodwaters in a village of Chakaria upazila in Cox’s Bazar due to heavy rainfall and mountain runoff from upstream. Photo: Messenger
A sudden deluge of continuous heavy rainfall and mountain runoff from upstream has led to severe flooding in the Chakaria Upazila of Cox’s Bazar, affecting over 100,000 residents across 25 villages in five unions. As of Friday morning, reports indicate that the water level of the Matamuhuri River is nearing the danger mark, exacerbating the crisis in this low-lying area.
The torrential rains, which have persisted for three consecutive days, have inundated significant portions of Chakaria. Local weather officials have recorded an alarming 270 millimeters of rainfall in just the last 24 hours. Areas such as Liakata, Alipakata, Hasimarkata, Unachari, Bhainnachara, Mayurerchak, and Manikpur Surajpur have all reported flooding, with new areas becoming submerged as the situation worsens.
According to local authorities, the flooding has affected vital infrastructure. Roads and highways are reported to be impassable, isolating several communities. Abdul Hannan, an assistant meteorologist at the Cox's Bazar Weather Office, warns that heavy rainfall is expected to continue for at least the next three days, further raising concerns about the potential for increased flooding.
Salekuzzaman, Chairman of Baraitali Union, described the dire situation: “Water has entered Govindpur Porachanda and Dengakata, leaving around 10-12 thousand people waterlogged in just four villages.” Similarly, Abul Kalam, a member of the Koyarbil Union, and Chairman Makki Iqbal reported that several families in the 6th and 8th wards are now trapped as floodwaters rise.
Reports from union chairpersons highlight that nearly 10,000 residents in five villages within the Surajpur Manikpur Union are grappling with waterlogged conditions. Azimul Haque Azim, the Union Chairman, noted that essential roadways are submerged, disrupting communication and emergency response efforts.
The impact of the flooding extends beyond immediate displacement; farmlands and vital seedbeds have also been compromised, raising concerns about food security in the region. Local leaders emphasize the urgent need for assistance as many families find themselves in dire situations with limited access to resources.
In response to the unfolding disaster, Chakaria Upazila Executive Officer Fakhrul Islam stated that efforts are underway to facilitate the quick drainage of floodwater. Sluice gates have been kept open, and arrangements are being made to provide dry food supplies to the affected areas.
As the flooding crisis continues, local communities are coming together to support one another, while officials work diligently to address the urgent needs of those impacted. The situation remains fluid, and residents are urged to remain vigilant as more heavy rainfall is expected in the coming days.
As this humanitarian crisis unfolds, the government and local organizations are being called upon to provide immediate assistance to those affected, ensuring that the community can recover from this devastating event. The resilience of the Chakaria Upazila residents is being tested, but with the collective effort of authorities and community members, there is hope for recovery and rebuilding in the aftermath of the floods.
Messenger/Disha
