The United Nations World Food Program (WFP) has initiated its response to the severe flooding crisis in Bangladesh, which has impacted over 5 million people in the southeastern and northeastern regions, particularly the Chittagong and Sylhet Divisions.
In collaboration with national NGO partners, WFP is delivering immediate relief to the most affected communities.
Approximately 60,000 families (around 300,000 individuals) are receiving fortified biscuits to meet their urgent food needs.
Relief distributions have begun in Comilla, Feni, Noakhali, and Moulvibazar, with plans to expand to Laxmipur and Cox’s Bazar districts soon.
The flooding, which has been escalating since August 20, has caused extensive damage to infrastructure, leaving many communities stranded and without access to essential services.
Simone Parchment, WFP representative in Bangladesh, said: “We have kicked off our response to address the immediate food needs of affected communities, supporting government-led relief efforts. Our focus is on providing food assistance to families in shelters who have insufficient food supplies and lack cooking facilities.”
Since August 26, WFP has joined a rapid assessment mission led by the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office.
Based on the needs identified, WFP is prepared to scale up its response if necessary, including offering food packages and cash-based support where markets are operational.
Additionally, the organization plans to launch cash-for-work schemes to help rebuild critical infrastructure such as water management systems, roads, and embankments.
