It appears that every year, Bangladesh experiences floods that keep getting worse. Right now, the northern region of Bangladesh is still struggling with floodwaters, while the recent floods in the southeastern region, including Comilla, Feni, Noakhali, and Lakshmipur, have caused damages estimated to be Tk14,421 crore.
With floods being our reality every single year, and with Bangladesh undergoing a rebuild since the fall of the Awami League government, it is of utmost importance that we get our flood response right.
This starts with early forecasting and monitoring to minimize the damage. Too often, Bangladesh has been reactive instead of pro-active when it comes to floods, which is simply unacceptable for a phenomenon that occurs without fail every year.
Moreover, it is after the water recedes that oftentimes, we see the most chaos. Reports this year, much like every year, tell us about the lack of coordination in the distribution of relief in the flood-affected areas, with some areas receiving disproportionately more aid than others. Such inaction and inefficiency on the part of the authorities concerned must simply no longer be tolerated.
There is also the need for better infrastructure to minimize waterlogging, and the subsequent health hazards that follow as a result of stagnant water, including many waterborne diseases. All of this requires urgent and pro-active attention to minimize the suffering of the people.
Millions suffer every year due to the floods, and thousands are suffering at this very moment as well. While it is not simple nor easy to coordinate around floods, it is something that nevertheless must be done. In this new Bangladesh, where we wish to see more accountability and regard for this country’s citizens, minimizing suffering due to floods should be very high on the priority list for the government.
