Lakshmipur, May 30 (V7N) – Continuous rainfall combined with abnormally high tides in the Meghna River has flooded about 20 villages in the coastal upazilas of Kamalnagar and Ramgati in Lakshmipur district. The flooding began on Thursday afternoon, triggered by the effects of the full moon, and has caused severe disruption to daily life and infrastructure.

All boat traffic on the Lakshmipur–Bhola–Barisal route via the Meghna River has been suspended indefinitely due to the turbulent conditions. The rough waters pose a significant risk to small and medium-sized vessels navigating the route.

The tidal surge submerged vast low-lying areas of several unions, including:

  • Kamalnagar Upazila: Kalkini, Saheberhat, Patwarirhat, Charfalkon, Charmartin, Charlorench

  • Ramgati Upazila: Alexander, Barakheri, Chargazi, Char Abdullah

Floodwaters entered homes, roads, croplands, and fish farms, severely impacting livelihoods. Many residents reported losing their fish stocks and are struggling to protect poultry and cattle. Access to clean water and cooking facilities has also become a pressing issue.

The situation has been exacerbated by widespread power outages, with several rural and urban areas experiencing a complete blackout. Locals report that power supply remains disconnected in most of the submerged areas, increasing their vulnerability.

Although work is underway on a riverbank protection dam, the project remains incomplete. Locals blame repeated flooding on the absence of a durable embankment and have called for immediate construction of a permanent and robust flood protection system.

Deputy Commissioner Rajiv Kumar Sarkar confirmed the situation, stating:

“The low-lying areas of Ramgati and Kamalnagar have been inundated. There is no immediate flood threat, but we are fully prepared.”

Key government responses include:

  • Deployment of 285 shelter centers

  • Formation of 64 medical teams

  • Adequate stockpile of dry food and emergency supplies

While the tide has begun to recede, the damage is already extensive. Many families remain displaced, with limited access to resources and facing uncertainty as the monsoon season progresses.

Local officials are urging people in high-risk areas to remain alert and follow safety instructions, while also calling on the central government to accelerate long-term infrastructure projects to protect vulnerable coastal communities.

END/MSS/AJ