Just a year ago, the people of Feni district suffered devastating floods. Now, they are once again facing inundation this time, the situation appears even more dire. With no clear end in sight, residents are trapped and uncertain about how long they will remain marooned.
In August last year, a catastrophic flood wreaked havoc across Feni, destroying hundreds of homes, cropland, and livelihoods. Entire villages were wiped out. People watched helplessly as floodwaters washed away everything they had built. Many barely survived.
Once again, unrelenting downpours and the overflow of rivers have submerged vast areas. More than 30 villages in Fulgazi and Parshuram upazilas are under-water following the collapse of flood control embankments at 15 points along the Muhuri, Kuhua, and Silonia rivers. The damage has been compounded by surging upstream water from India and continuous heavy rainfall. Power supply in many parts of the district has been cut off, leaving thousands in darkness.
Homes, crops, livestock, fisheries — all are being ravaged. The deteriorating flood situation has intensified the suffering of affected residents, with all communication links between upazila towns and remote villages severed. With boats becoming the only means of transport, people are desperately seeking shelter. Many remain marooned, without access to safe drinking water, electricity, or mobile networks. Essential services have been brought to a standstill.
More than 30 villages in Fulgazi
and Parshuram upazilas are
underwater following the collapse
of flood control embankments
Adding to the crisis is a acute shortage of cattle feed. Floodwaters have destroyed grazing lands, and stored feed has been washed away along with many farmers’ homes and sheds. This has created a food insecurity situation not just for livestock but for people as well. Croplands have been devastated, infrastructure ruined, and fish farms obliterated. Schools, markets, mosques, madrasas, and roads are also at risk. In a riverine country like Bangladesh, where many live along riverbanks and char areas, annual flooding has become a tragic routine. These vulnerable communities are hit hardest every time.
Immediate and intensified relief efforts are needed in the worst-affected areas. The local administration must act swiftly to distribute food, water, and medical aid. The Health Department must remain alert to prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases. At this critical time, people from all walks of life must stand beside the flood-affected residents of Feni. Community solidarity, alongside administrative action, is essential to navigating this crisis. The Water Development Board (WDB) in Feni has reported that the Muhuri River in Parshuram is flowing 1.57 meters above the danger level. The Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC) warns of further moderate to heavy rainfall, particularly across the coastal and eastern regions — including Chattogram, Khulna, and Barishal divisions.
Heavy rain over the past 24 hours have already worsened the situation, and more are expected. Rivers such as the Muhuri and Selonia are likely to maintain their dangerously high water levels for at least another 24 hours.
Meanwhile, forecasts predict rain and thunderstorm across the country, with very heavy rainfall likely in Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal, and Chattogram divisions. With river water continuing to rise, preparedness is crucial.
Authorities must urgently begin distributing essentials such as dry food, cooked meals, purified water, oral saline, and medicine. Medical teams must be sent to the area without delay. Temporary shelters must be set up, as many have already lost their homes.
Across the country, 628 flood-prone points have been identified — 26 of them highly vulnerable. Of these, 521 points need immediate protection to prevent future disasters. Government agencies, non-governmental organizations, volunteers, and community members must all work together to combat the worsening flood crisis in Feni. This is a time for unity, compassion, and decisive action.
