Bangladesh
UNICEF Bangladesh Over 1.5 million children in Bangladesh at risk of floods
Own Correspondent, Dhaka, May 24: The UNICEF said more than 1.5 million children are at risk of safety, health, nutrition and education due to severe floods in five northeastern districts of Bangladesh.
According to the organization, children are the most vulnerable in any emergency. UNICEF is working in the field with government and non-government partners to respond to the urgent safety, health, nutrition and safe water needs of affected children and families.
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said in a press release on Monday (May 23).
It said more than 4 million people in five districts of Bangladesh - Sylhet, Sunamganj, Habiganj, Netrokona and Moulvibazar - have been affected by the floods. The people of Sylhet and Sunamganj areas are most at risk as water is flowing over the danger zone and important infrastructures including agricultural lands, power plants and schools have been inundated. Diarrhea, respiratory infections and skin diseases have already been reported in the affected districts. At least three children have been killed in lightning strikes.
Hundreds of schools have been closed in the districts due to the floods, affecting children's education. After 18 months of school closure due to the pandemic in the last two years, such a situation is again depriving the children from education.
Mr. Sheldon Yett, UNICEF representative in Bangladesh, said: "We extend our deepest condolences to the flood victims. As with any other emergency, children are at the highest risk. UNICEF continues to work closely with the government and partners to ensure the protection of these children and their immediate needs."
UNICEF is providing clean water, hygiene supplies, therapeutic milk and educational materials, as well as raising awareness about drowning and emergency preparedness among affected communities. UNICEF is also working closely with the Department of Social Services (DSS) to ensure that social workers are prepared to deal with emergencies to ensure the safety and security of children.
