Noakhali faces food shortage as water levels rise

With floodwaters rising in residential areas of Noakhali, the district faces a severe food shortage, leaving thousands of residents in need of urgent relief.

Water levels had increased by 1-1.5 feet in most areas of all its upazilas, including Maijdee, in 24 hours before Tuesday (August 27) morning.

Severe damage has been reported in Noakhali Sadar, Begumganj, Kabirhat, Senbug and Sonaimuri areas. Many areas are cut off from electricity and mobile networks, with numerous homes being swept away by floodwaters.

Food shortages have already emerged in shelters, and the relief materials provided by the government and various voluntary organisations are insufficient to meet the growing needs.

Due to a shortage of boats, delivering relief to remote areas is becoming increasingly difficult. So far, 10 people have died in Noakhali due to drowning and electrocution amid the floods.

Meanwhile, the lack of clean drinking water has led to a rise in waterborne diseases. Over 150 people are being treated daily for diarrhoea at the 250-bed Noakhali General Hospital.

More than 200,000 people have taken refuge in over 1,000 shelters across the district, with crowds growing as more people seek safety.

Approximately two million people across all upazilas are trapped by the floodwaters.