“We need more boats in Noakhali to rescue additional people,” said Jobayer Hossain, a member of the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) in Noakhali.
So far, the unit has rescued about 25 volunteers from Begumganj and Sadar upazila, and a team is currently en route to Karimganj Upazila for further rescues.
On Wednesday morning, The BDRCS Noakhali unit established a Flood Control Room in preparation for the flooding.
Jobayer said: “We have received over 1,000 calls till now. However, we could only respond to about a hundred due to resource constraints.”
Local residents have reported that water levels have risen to neck height in most parts of the district, with Maizdi being slightly less affected, where water levels have reached waist height.
Flood shelters were established in schools on Wednesday, and some residents have sought refuge there. However, many people are struggling to reach the shelters due to surrounding floodwaters.
Till Wednesday, the unit distributed dry rations from the volunteers’ funds, and on Thursday, they are preparing relief from supplies sent from Dhaka.
Jobayer also noted that the Army is collaborating with them, but road closures due to flooding from Laksham and Comilla have prevented the Army from bringing essential equipment from the cantonments.
The BDRCS Noakhali unit urged the public to stay calm, avoid spreading misinformation, and take necessary precautions. The flood control room in Noakhali can be contacted at 01684-857742.