Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday conducted an aerial inspection of the devastating flood situation in Sylhet, Sunamganj, Netrokona and surrounding areas, as unprecedented monsoon rains and upstream water surges inundated large parts of north-eastern Bangladesh.
Travelling by helicopter, the Prime Minister personally observed the extent of flooding while maintaining a low-altitude flight over the affected districts. Vast stretches of land appeared submerged, with roads, homes, farmlands and marketplaces underwater, underscoring the scale of the humanitarian challenge facing the region.
Following the aerial survey, Sheikh Hasina landed at Sylhet Osmani International Airport before proceeding to the Sylhet Circuit House. There, she was scheduled to chair an emergency coordination meeting with senior officials from the divisional and district administrations, as well as representatives of the local Awami League leadership. The meeting aimed to assess ongoing rescue operations, relief distribution, and preparedness for further flooding.
In response to the rapidly deteriorating situation, the government had earlier mobilised the armed forces to assist civil authorities. Army personnel were deployed to support evacuation efforts and reach stranded residents, while units from the Navy and Air Force were later called in to strengthen rescue and relief operations—particularly in the Sylhet region, where floodwaters had transformed entire localities into what officials described as an “inland sea”.
Authorities have been prioritising the evacuation of vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly and the sick, while working to restore communication links and provide access to emergency medical care in remote and submerged areas.
To address immediate humanitarian needs, the government has allocated substantial emergency assistance to flood-affected districts. According to an official press release, cash grants, food supplies and dry rations were distributed between 15 and 18 June to support relief efforts at the district level.
Government Humanitarian Assistance to Flood-Affected Districts
| Type of Assistance | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cash allocation | Tk 22.5 million |
| Rice | 400 metric tonnes |
| Dry and emergency food packets | 41,000 packets |
Officials stated that the aid was disbursed to the deputy commissioners of the affected districts to ensure rapid distribution among flood victims. Additional allocations may be considered depending on the evolving situation and damage assessments.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to standing alongside flood-affected communities and ensuring that no one is left without assistance. She also directed officials to maintain close coordination among all agencies and remain fully prepared for further rainfall and potential flooding.
As climate-induced extreme weather events continue to pose serious risks, the current floods highlight the urgent need for strengthened disaster preparedness, resilient infrastructure, and long-term water management strategies in Bangladesh’s flood-prone regions.