The United Nations has assured the government of Bangladesh that the UN System will continue to support ongoing efforts aimed at restoring services and providing emergency supplies to those affected by landslides, reports UNB. The UN said it remains "concerned" about the loss of lives, livelihoods and damage to homes and infrastructure in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, Chittagong and Cox's Bazar.
Mudslides triggered by torrential monsoon rains have killed over 150 people across five districts.
The UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Robert D Watkins expressed solidarity with the people and families affected by the landslides.
This disaster occurs on the heels of cyclone Mora which left nine people dead and caused significant damage across the region, said an UN media release yesterday.
The mudslides are reported to be amongst the most lethal in Bangladesh's recent history, and are widely attributed to the combination of the heavy rainfall and environmental degradation caused by unregulated deforestation and a burgeoning population.
Hundreds of homes were buried in mud and rubble, and residents are facing acute fuel, electricity and water shortages. Families are taking refuge in emergency shelters, including schools and public buildings.
Meanwhile, local authorities are providing support to the
affected residents, and have pledged to continue their support until families can safely return home.
The blockage of road links within the affected areas and the disruption in telephone communications are hampering the relief response,
but the World Health Organization (WHO) is working with the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) and the National Crisis Management Centre to assess the health aspects of the disaster. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), both present and with
ongoing development projects in the Chittagong Hill Tract region, are also undertaking assessments and helping with the response.
More detailed and long-term rehabilitation plans are being drawn up in collaboration with the Disaster Management and Relief Ministry, the release added.