Rain has continued across various parts of the country for several days now. According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in eight divisions, including Chattogram. In Cox’s Bazar, persistent heavy rainfall has inundated most of the district’s low-lying areas.
Tidal surges, rising 4-5 feet above normal levels, are crashing onto the coast.
Nearly all upazilas, including Maheshkhali, Kutubdia, Teknaf, Chakaria, Pekua, Cox’s Bazar Sadar, and Eidgaon, have seen tidal waters entering low-lying areas, flooding hundreds of homes. The inclement weather has affected not only residents but also tourists visiting Cox’s Bazar beach. Due to strong winds and heavy rain, many shops in the tourist areas have been forced to close.
Meanwhile, in Ukhiya, continuous heavy rainfall and water rushing from the hills have flooded low-lying areas, leaving residents of at least 15 villages stranded. Rural roads and culverts have been damaged, while vegetable fields, betel leaf gardens, and houses have suffered significant losses.
Kamrul Hossain Chowdhury, Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO), said that since last night, members of the Cyclone Preparedness Programme (CPP) have been working to relocate people living in high-risk areas to safer shelters. Cyclone shelters have been kept open to accommodate the affected residents.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Courtesy
