The water crisis in the Rohingya refugee camps of Teknaf has reached an alarming level, posing a severe threat to the health and safety of thousands. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has urged immediate intervention to address the crisis.
Currently, each Rohingya refugee receives only 10 liters of water per day—half of the minimum required for daily survival. The situation has worsened due to a drastic reduction in water reserves, as Teknaf heavily relies on stored water, which has depleted at an alarming rate this year.
Antonio Cardadona, MSF’s Head of Mission in Bangladesh, described the crisis as deeply concerning: “The situation is dire. The availability of only 10 liters per person per day in Teknaf is inadequate to ensure a safe and healthy life. The increasing outbreak of various diseases across the camps highlights the gravity of this crisis.”
Noor Alam, a Rohingya refugee, shared his struggles: “We have been witnessing worsening water shortages for years, with limited assistance. Many of us are forced to walk long distances and stand in long queues just to collect water, which consumes a significant part of our day.”
Emergency response efforts are ongoing, but the need for an improved and accelerated water supply system remains urgent. The rising risks of waterborne diseases like cholera and increasing malnutrition demand immediate attention, including strengthened health awareness and preventive measures. The worsening crisis is a direct threat to human health and security.
In response, MSF has initiated a borehole project, improved water storage and supply services, and increased truck water delivery in the camps. However, while these emergency measures provide temporary relief, they are neither sustainable nor sufficient.
MSF has called on authorities and donors to prioritize long-term investments in sustainable water supply systems. It also urged responsible stakeholders to ensure accountability and active participation in addressing this growing crisis.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report/Abdur Rashid Manik
Photo: Courtesy