Teknaf, July 7 (V7N) — More than 2,000 people have been stranded in southern Teknaf Upazila of Cox’s Bazar as continuous heavy rainfall for over a week has inundated at least 60 villages, disrupting daily life and putting lives at risk. Authorities have issued urgent evacuation warnings, especially for those living in the nearby hilly regions vulnerable to landslides.
 
According to local sources, floodwaters have submerged vast areas of Teknaf, including Saint Martin’s Island, Whykong, Hnila, and Sabrang unions. Hundreds of homes are partially or fully underwater. Many affected families have reported being unable to cook or access clean water, further worsening the humanitarian situation.
 
In response, the Teknaf Upazila administration has launched public announcements via loudspeakers, urging residents of at-risk hilly zones to move to safer locations immediately due to the increasing danger of landslides.
 
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has confirmed that Teknaf recorded 145 millimeters of rainfall, while Cox’s Bazar received 146 millimeters in the past 24 hours—marking the highest rainfall totals in the country during that period. Weather forecasts indicate that the rain may persist, intensifying the risk of further flooding and landslides.
 
Speaking on the crisis, Teknaf Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Sheikh Ehsan Uddin stated that the government has allocated 15 tons of emergency relief supplies for the affected areas. Relief distribution efforts are underway, focusing on food, drinking water, and temporary shelter.
 
Local volunteers, along with government officials and humanitarian organizations, are working to reach remote communities cut off by the floodwaters. Rescue and relief teams are also on standby in case of emergency evacuations.
 
Residents have expressed growing concerns over the lack of access to healthcare, drinking water, and essential food items. Local clinics are also reportedly overwhelmed by an increase in cases of waterborne diseases and respiratory infections due to the ongoing rain and damp conditions.
 
Authorities have emphasized the need for continued vigilance and cooperation from the public, particularly those in landslide-prone regions, and are urging citizens to follow official advisories.
 
The current situation underscores the urgent need for enhanced disaster preparedness and infrastructure support in the region, which remains highly vulnerable to monsoon-related natural disasters each year.
 
END/FAT/SMA/