Jahirul Patuakhali Correspondent : A minimum of 119,130 individuals have been impacted by the tidal surge driven by winds and heavy rainfall, resulting from the combined effects of a new moon and a deep depression in Patuakhali. Water has infiltrated 62 unions and four municipalities across eight upazilas in the district, leading to a dire situation. Over a thousand homes and infrastructure have been devastated.
This information was verified in the SOS form signed by Deputy Commissioner Abu Hasnat Mohammad Arefin on Friday afternoon, May 30.
A preliminary damage assessment report submitted to the Department of Relief and Disaster Management by the Disaster Management Branch of the Ekaryalaya indicated that, although it did not manifest as a cyclone, the current land depression has caused significant damage in Patuakhali.
The report estimates that 119,130 people have been affected across 62 unions and four municipalities in eight upazilas of the district. Among these, 1,277 houses were partially damaged, and 9 houses were completely destroyed.
Fortunately, there have been no reported fatalities in the district. An initial request for emergency relief assistance amounting to Tk 50 lakh has been submitted to the Disaster Management Department to address the damages.
The Meteorological Department reported that the low-pressure system that moved across the coast near Sagardwip and Khepupara is currently situated as a land deep depression in the Satkhira region and is gradually weakening. However, due to its effects, 89.09 mm of rainfall has been recorded in Patuakhali over the past 24 hours. A local warning signal number three is currently in effect at Payra sea port.
In the meantime, water has inundated several areas of Kalapara, Rangabali, Galachipa, and Bauphal upazilas following the breach of dams. Hundreds of homes, enclosures, and agricultural lands have been submerged. In many locations, residents have sought refuge on high embankments or in schools rather than going to designated shelters.
Residents reported that the destruction caused by this severe depression is significantly greater than that of recent cyclones such as ‘Sitrang’, ‘Mokha’, or ‘Bulbul’. This is partly due to the fact that this depression has persisted over land for an extended period, and the combination with the new moon tide has resulted in elevated tidal waves. Additionally, the extent of the damage has escalated considerably because many dams are frail and insufficient.
While emergency food and medical aid have not yet been delivered to those affected, the authorities are keeping a close watch on the situation. Delwar Hossain, the relevant district disaster management officer, stated that prompt measures will be implemented to swiftly provide clean water, dry food, and financial support to the individuals stranded.
