TEKNAF, BANGLADESH & RAKHINE STATE, MYANMAR—In the aftermath of three days of torrential rains that caused flooding and landslides in the border region between Bangladesh and Myanmar, Action Against Hunger’s teams on the ground have mobilised to respond to the situation. 

In Myanmar, international humanitarian organisation Action Against Hunger | ACF International is closely coordinating with the present agencies and authorities and using its current operational set-up to deliver emergency clean water and sanitation services and distribute basic items, including cooking utensils, to the affected population. Authorities estimate the rains have killed at least 99 people and wiped out homes, roads, bridges and other infrastructure. 

“Hygiene and sanitation infrastructure has been washed away in the flooding, leaving the population at much greater risk of contracting water-bourne diseases,” says Tarik Kadir, a spokesperson for Action Against Hunger. “We’re monitoring the situation very closely.” 

On the Myanmar side, hundreds of latrines have been damaged or submerged in the flood waters. In addition, a large number of communal water points have been rendered unsafe. 

Farming communities have also been adversely affected by the heavy monsoon rains. A number of rice seedling nurseries were destroyed, and most farmers cannot afford to buy new seeds to re-sow their fields. With rice prices already on the rise prior to the flooding, ACF’s response will anticipate a worsening of the food security situation among farming communities.  

In Bangladesh, after the first assistance was delivered by authorities, Action Against Hunger’s teams are assessing the situation in Teknaf to investigate needs for further assistance.

____________________________________________________

Action Against Hunger's life-saving programmes around the world depend on the generous support of donors. Donate Now

Stay informed about Action Against Hunger's cutting-edge solutions to child hunger.