Noakhali faces food shortage as water levels rise

Floodwaters in Noakhali, Bangladesh, have caused a severe food shortage and damage to homes in several areas. Water levels have increased by one to one and a half feet in 24 hours, causing severe damage and cutting off electricity and mobile networks. Relief materials provided by the government and voluntary organizations are insufficient to meet the growing needs. Ten people have died in Noakhali due to drowning and electrocution. The lack of clean drinking water has led to a rise in waterborne diseases, with over 150 people being treated daily for diarrhea at the Noakhali General Hospital. Snakebite cases are also increasing, with 40 to 50 patients admitted daily. Over 200,000 people have taken refuge in over 1,000 shelters, and approximately 2 million people are trapped by the floodwaters.