Dhaka, Oct 06 (V7N): The recent floods in the eastern part of Bangladesh have resulted in an estimated damage of Tk14,421 crore across eleven districts, according to a study conducted by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD). The findings were presented today at a media briefing held at the CPD office in Dhaka.

This flood damage represents 1.81% of the national budget for FY2024-25, as per the study. In terms of the country's gross domestic product (GDP), it accounts for 0.29% of the provisional GDP for FY2023-24 and 0.26% of the projected GDP for FY2024-25.

The flood, which began in mid-August, severely impacted the districts of Sylhet, Moulvibazar, Habiganj, Feni, Khagrachhari, Cox's Bazar, Cumilla, Noakhali, Chattogram, Lakshmipur, and Brahmanbaria. The CPD assessed the damage across these areas, with the agricultural sector suffering the most, reporting losses of Tk5,169 crore, which accounted for 35.85% of the total damage.

Other significant losses included Tk4,653 crore in infrastructure, Tk2,407 crore in housing, Tk2,062 crore in the health sector, Tk89.63 crore in educational infrastructure, and Tk38 crore in the industrial sector. The report noted that the aman rice crop was particularly affected, although the exact damage to rice production was not mentioned, raising concerns over the impact on national food security. The CPD recommended prompt action from the government to address rice imports.

Noakhali was identified as the most affected district, with damages amounting to Tk4,191 crore. Cumilla, Feni, Chattogram, and Lakshmipur also experienced substantial damage.

The CPD report further highlighted inconsistencies in relief distribution, noting that some areas received multiple rounds of aid, while others were left without assistance, indicating issues with coordination and delivery.

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