Govt doing everything possible to support Bandarban flood victims: State Minister Aninda Islam

State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit on Wednesday said the government is making every possible effort to assist people affected by heavy rainfall and flash floods in Bandarban, assuring that no victim will be left without support.

After distributing relief materials among flood-affected families at Amtali Para in Bandarban municipality, Amit told reporters that the government is working to ease the suffering of all affected communities without discrimination.

"Everyone has suffered equally, whether indigenous people, Bengalis or members of any other community. The government will stand beside every affected family," he said.

The state minister said he visited Bandarban on the instructions of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to assess the flood situation and monitor ongoing relief operations.

He said local MP Saching Pru Jerry, the district administration, police and other government agencies have been engaged in rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts since the floods began.

According to Amit, cooked meals are being served to people staying at flood shelters, while dry food is being distributed among those who remain outside the shelters. Medical teams are also providing treatment and healthcare services in the affected areas.

He said the government plans to launch food assistance and food-friendly programmes within the next few days, enabling flood victims to buy essential commodities at subsidised prices.

The minister also said damaged and destroyed houses would be repaired or rebuilt in phases so that affected families can return to their homes as soon as possible.

Referring to the post-flood challenges, Amit said receding floodwaters have left many areas covered with mud and waste, increasing the risk of disease.

He said coordinated clean-up drives involving the local administration, municipality, elected representatives and political activists would begin soon to restore normal conditions and help prevent the spread of diseases.