Interim government Chief Adviser Prof Dr Muhammad Yunus has warned that health and food risks may arise once floodwaters recede, urging all parties to collaborate in addressing these risks.
Prof Yunus was speaking at a meeting on Saturday afternoon at Jamuna, the Chief Adviser's official residence, with representatives from 44 non-governmental development organizations active in the flood-affected areas.
The meeting between the chief adviser and the NGO representatives lasted about two hours.
Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam informed reporters afterward that Prof Yunus emphasized the role of NGOs, saying: "NGOs are a force. We must realize the dreams of our youth."
Prof Yunus also stressed the importance of utilizing local knowledge and the expertise of NGOs to efficiently manage the flood situation and post-flood activities. The meeting discussed how to execute quick rescue and relief operations and which issues should be prioritized.
Shafiqul Alam said that after assessing the damage, funds would be raised through donor organizations and expatriates. Prof Yunus also instructed that mobile towers and electricity supply be restored in the flood-affected areas.
Alam added: "The chief adviser said that the government is giving the highest priority to dealing with the floods. We must tackle this situation, and everyone should come forward to fulfill this responsibility. If possible, flood control efforts should also be coordinated at the district level."
During the meeting, Prof Yunus highlighted the risks to health and food that could emerge after the floodwaters recede, noting that more work would be required after the floods. The chief adviser said: "Our youth have created great opportunities for us. We must seize this opportunity quickly."
The chief adviser also noted that attention should be paid not only to combating the floods but also to preventing future flooding in the country.
After the meeting, BRAC Executive Director Asif Saleh emphasized the need to secure international funds to address the flood situation.
He mentioned that there would be a needs assessment and that there would be a focus on effective coordination to ensure relief materials reach all affected individuals. He also noted that along with people from all walks of life, expatriate Bangladeshis were also contributing to the relief efforts.
Earlier, the press wing announced that Prof Yunus would meet with leaders of NGOs and organizations working closely in flood relief and rescue activities. Among those present were Adviser Ali Imam Majumder, SDG Coordinator Lamiya Morshed, prominent economist Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, Rasheda K. Chowdhury, ActionAid Bangladesh Chief Farah Kabir, and BRAC Executive Director Asif Saleh.
