Dhaka, Sept 03 (V7N): The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has called for $5 million to meet the urgent needs of women and girls affected by severe flooding in Bangladesh and to ensure safe delivery for over 78,000 pregnant women in the impacted regions.

The flooding, which has severely affected southeastern Bangladesh, has displaced over 5.82 million people, leaving many without access to shelter, healthcare, or essential supplies. The ongoing monsoon rains, exacerbated by climate change, have overwhelmed major rivers, causing extensive damage.

UNFPA has highlighted the increased risks faced by women, adolescent girls, and gender-diverse populations in this crisis. There are over 78,000 pregnant women in the affected areas, with many expected to give birth in the near future. Additionally, women and girls are at heightened risk of gender-based violence, particularly in overcrowded evacuation centers lacking adequate security and privacy.

Kristine Blokhus, UNFPA's representative in Bangladesh, expressed deep concern for the affected women and girls, noting their vulnerability due to a lack of essential healthcare, clean water, and safe shelter. "UNFPA is committed to ensuring safe births and providing protection for the most vulnerable, even in these dire conditions," Blokhus said.

With support from UK and Australian Aid, UNFPA and its partners are distributing dignity kits, menstrual hygiene supplies, and emergency reproductive health services via mobile clinics. They have already reached over 2,000 women and girls in Noakhali, Feni, and Khagrachari, despite logistical and coordination challenges.

UNFPA is working closely with the Bangladeshi government to deliver life-saving healthcare, cash support, and protection services. "The climate crisis is intensifying extreme weather events, making them more frequent and severe. To prevent further loss of life and safeguard the dignity and safety of those most at risk, we urgently need coordinated humanitarian efforts and increased funding," Blokhus emphasized.

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