The rural landscape of Ramu in Cox’s Bazar has been transformed by the monsoon into a lush green panorama, refreshed by days of relentless rain.
But behind the picturesque scenery lies the quiet suffering of thousands of flood-affected residents whose lives remain disrupted long after the floodwaters receded.
Although water levels have gradually fallen over the past week, many villages—particularly South Mithachhari—are still struggling to recover from the flooding.
A visit to the area found courtyards and homes in many parts of the village still partially submerged. In some places, knee-deep water continues to hamper daily life.
Water has entered kitchens, leaving many families unable to cook regular meals and forcing them to survive on dry food. Shortages of safe drinking water have also emerged in several neighborhoods.
Residents said the persistent rain has prevented homes from drying out, while unpaved village roads have turned into muddy tracks, making movement difficult.
Large areas of vegetable fields and aman paddy have been inundated, leaving many farmers facing heavy losses.
Livestock owners are also struggling as fodder has become scarce and flooded cattle sheds have made it difficult to care for their animals.
“The floodwater has receded a little, but our suffering has not,” said resident Mohammad Abdul Karim.
There is still water inside their house, they cannot cook properly, and every time it rains the water rises again. Looking after their cattle has become another challenge, he added.
Housewife Rokeya Begum said the continuous rain has made life increasingly difficult.
“Our home remains damp all the time. It is very hard to live with small children in these conditions. There is hardly any dry space, and cooking has become a daily struggle,” she said.
Yet amid the hardship, the monsoon has painted Ramu in remarkable colors. Emerald paddy fields, rain-soaked hills, mist-covered knolls and winding village roads have created a landscape of striking natural beauty.
Trees washed clean by the rain and the vibrant greenery may captivate nature lovers and photographers. Still, for residents, the same scenery is a reminder of days of uncertainty and loss.
Residents have urged the authorities to accelerate drainage efforts, provide adequate relief to affected families, and introduce rehabilitation programs for farmers and small livestock rearers.
They remain hopeful that as the rain subsides, life in the flood-hit villages will gradually return to normal.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Mohammad Morshed
