Caritas Bangladesh rushes aid to flood survivors

Caritas Bangladesh is launching a series of initiatives to help victims of the devastating floods in Bangladesh. Volunteers have distributed money and hygiene kits for at least 1,650 families affected by the emergency. Efforts are concentrated in two districts in the north of the country. The delivery of relief supplies was also attended by officials of the central government of Dhaka.

In the summer of 2016, Bangladesh suffered the worst floods in 10 years.

At least three million people, scattered in 16 districts of the country, have been badly affected. Water and mud has washed away more than 15 thousand homes.

Pintu William Gomes, head of the Department of Disaster Management of Bangladesh Caritas told AsiaNews: "We have distributed aid in two districts, Sirajgonj and Kurigram, those most affected. Soon other districts will be affected by the distribution...We handed out disinfection kits containing bags, mugs and other basic necessities, so that the population can collect drinking water safely."

Mr Hamid Islam, one of the many victims in the Sirajgonj district, said: "The Government only gave us dry food, but stocks ran out three days ago. The money received from Caritas is of great help. So I want to thank them".

Danis C Baskey, regional director of Caritas Rajshahi, also reports that an information campaign has been launched by Catholic volunteers on hygiene and cleanliness in the affected communities, to prevent the risk of infections and epidemics. Among the important issues they are offering advice on, is how to avoid snake bites - a common problem with rising water levels.

Source: Caritas/AsiaNews/Vatican Radio