Floods in Bangladesh kill 44 and strand more than a million

Floods and landslides, caused by heavy monsoon rains that lasted for several days, claimed the lives of at least 44 people in southeastern Bangladesh, and left more than a million people stranded at a time when the authorities were rushing on Saturday to deliver aid to the affected towns.
The Ministry of Disaster Management in Bangladesh said that the floods that swept through seven districts, namely Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Bandarban, Rangamati, Khagrachari, Moulvibazar, and Habiganj, disrupted daily life, isolating thousands of families.
Power outages, damaged roads, and broken communication lines slowed down rescue and relief efforts. Many residents were unable to cook for several days after floodwaters submerged their homes, while others suffered after thick layers of mud covered kitchens and living spaces.
Thousands of families depend on dry foods and emergency relief, but washed-out roads and damaged bridges have made it difficult for relief personnel to reach some of the most affected towns.
Members of the army and navy are transporting food, drinking water, medicines and other basic supplies by boat to the isolated towns at a time when the authorities are intensifying relief efforts.
“The government is doing everything possible to support the flood victims. Aid, safe drinking water and medical supplies are being distributed, and we urge those whose homes were flooded to move to the nearest shelter,” Disaster Management and Relief Minister Iqbal Hussain said during a visit to affected areas in Chattogram.