Staff Correspondent
The overall flood situation in Jamalpur has improved as the water level of the Jamuna River has dropped significantly, but many areas remain inundated and the affected communities continue to face severe challenges.
Rafiqul Islam, executive engineer of the Bangladesh Water Development Board's local office, said in the 24 hours to 10am on Tuesday, the water level at Bahadurabad Ghat in Dewanganj dropped by 17cm, remaining 61cm above the danger level.
The water level at Jagannathganj Ghat in Sarishabari decreased by 11cm, still 103cm above the danger mark, he added.
He further said despite the drops, the hardships of the affected people continue.
Due to the spread of floodwaters, many areas are newly inundated. In Dewanganj, Bakshiganj, Islampur, Melandah, Madarganj, and Sarishabari upazilas, about 300,000 people are still stranded, while 19 community clinics and 259 primary and 88 secondary schools have halted their activities.
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Jamalpur Department of Agricultural Extension Deputy Director Zakia Sultana said some 8,000 hectares of cropland have been submerged. The affected crops include Aush, Ropa-Aman seedbeds, jute, chilli, corn, sesame, and various vegetables.
District Relief and Rehabilitation Officer Alamgir Hossain said thousands of families have sought refuge in 15 shelters. Various local and regional roads have been submerged, causing transportation difficulties.
A severe food and drinking water crisis has emerged in the affected areas. For the flood victims, 1,100 tons of rice, Tk22 lakh, and over 4,500 packets of dry food have been allocated.
