In response to the severe flooding that has devastated Bangladesh, the United Nations has allocated $4 million from its Central Emergency Response Fund. This crucial aid, announced on September 5, aims to support the ongoing relief efforts for the millions affected by the floods.
The floods have had a catastrophic impact on Bangladesh, affecting nearly 6 million people since late August. The inundation has displaced approximately 500,000 individuals, who are currently sheltered in over 3,400 evacuation centres. Additionally, the floods have led to the closure of more than 7,000 schools, disrupting the education of about 1.7 million students.
The economic toll of the floods has been substantial, with estimated losses of around $156 million in livestock and fisheries, as reported by Xinhua news agency. The widespread devastation has exacerbated the already challenging conditions in the country, which has faced multiple climate-related disasters this year.
Joyce Msuya, the acting UN emergency relief coordinator, has confirmed that the $4 million funding will be used to bolster the flood response efforts. According to Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the funds will support both the government-led response and local humanitarian initiatives.
“We, along with our humanitarian partners, are mobilized and supporting the government-led flood response. We are also helping with local efforts to assist the most vulnerable people and communities impacted by these floods,” Dujarric stated at the daily briefing.
This flood crisis is one of four major climate-related disasters that have struck Bangladesh this year. In addition to the current floods, the country has been affected by Cyclone Remal and other severe weather events, impacting nearly 13 million people across approximately 30 per cent of its territory. The repeated climatic challenges underscore the urgent need for ongoing international support and resilience-building measures in the region.
The allocation of $4 million from the UN’s Central Emergency Response Fund marks a critical step in addressing the immediate needs arising from the flooding crisis. However, the long-term recovery will require sustained support and coordination among international agencies, the Bangladeshi government, and local communities. As the country navigates the aftermath of this disaster, continued global assistance will be essential to mitigate further hardships and support recovery efforts.