50 Habiganj villages go underwater, over 100,000 marooned

Following Sylhet and Sunamganj, the flood situation in Habiganj has worsened due to upstream water rush and incessant rains. 

A total of 50 villages in the Nabiganj upazila of the district have been inundated by rising water levels in several rivers, including the Kushiyara.

The Water Development Board said the Kushiyara River is flowing above the danger level at Sherpur point. 

Floodwaters have inundated the villages in 13 unions of Nabiganj municipality as of Wednesday evening, marooning about 100,000 people. 

The floodwater has entered important establishments, such as the upazila health complex and fire service station. 

A total of 14 shelters have been opened in the affected areas, but residents report a lack of aid.

Residents are trying to stop the water with sandbags. They have expressed fear that some unions will be submerged if the embankment breaks.

Akbar Mia from the Galimpur area said: "Floodwater has entered our house. I am in a helpless situation.”

Nabiganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Anupam Das Anup urged people from the flood-hit areas to come to the shelter centers, assuring them of sufficient food stock. 

The deputy commissioner has been asked to monitor the flood situation, he said.

Habiganj Deputy Commissioner Jilufa Sultana said 171 tons of rice, Tk130,000, and 78 bundles of tins have been stored to tackle the potential floods. 

Additionally, 420 tons of rice have been sent to nine upazilas for storage. So far, 88 shelter centres have been opened in the district and more will be added if necessary.