Catholic church leader appeals for urgent aid as devastating floods ravage Bangladesh

In the wake of severe flooding that has wreaked havoc across Bangladesh, Bishop Gervas Rozario of the Rajshahi Diocese has issued an urgent appeal for aid to support the millions affected by the disaster.

The catastrophic floods, which began on August 20, have claimed at least 15 lives and displaced nearly 4.8 million people across 11 districts.

Torrential rains in northeastern India and Bangladesh have intensified the crisis, with the eastern regions bearing the brunt of the devastation.

Bishop Rozario expressed deep concern for the affected communities, highlighting the immense suffering of those who have lost their homes and livelihoods.

“As Christians, our hearts go out to our distressed brothers and sisters who have lost everything. Can we not extend our hands in help during this critical moment?” he urged.

The bishop called on parishioners, students, and religious institutions to rally in support of the relief efforts. He encouraged communities to organize fundraising drives and collect essential supplies for those in need.

“Please gather as much as you can, so we can send aid to the Sylhet and Chattogram Dioceses, where the need is most urgent,” he added.

The Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief has reported that 11 districts have been rendered uninhabitable, with Feni among the worst affected areas.

Eyewitnesses in Feni describe the destruction as unprecedented, with homes, livestock, and crops swept away by the relentless floodwaters. The Dhaka-Chittagong highway is submerged, and the extent of the damage is overwhelming.

In response to the crisis, the government has opened 2,246 shelters, providing refuge to nearly 83,000 people and 7,755 cattle.

Additionally, 492 medical teams have been deployed across ten districts to deliver essential healthcare services to flood victims.

The Ministry has allocated 3 crore, 32 lakh taka in cash, 19,650 tons of rice, and 15,000 sacks of dry food and other essentials for distribution.

Bishop Rozario’s heartfelt appeal highlights the urgent need for continued solidarity and generosity as Bangladesh confronts the aftermath of this devastating natural disaster.

The Catholic Church and the broader community are urged to come together in compassion and action to help rebuild lives and restore hope for those affected.– Nikhil Gomes