China has donated emergency rescue equipment as flood relief worth $1.5 million to the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) to bolster flood response and relief operations in the country.
At a ceremony held on Tuesday the BDRCS National Headquarters in Dhaka, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen officially handed over the equipment. Adviser to the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief Faruk-e-Azam attended the event as chief guest.
The aid package includes 100 rubber boats with engines, 15 water purification plants, 10 diesel-powered generators, six seawater desalination machines, 500 life jackets, 500 helmets, 500 pairs of boots and gloves, 300 marine first aid kits, 250 rescue ropes with carrying bags, 100 life rafts, 50 floating plates, 50 rescue panels, and 25 soft stretchers.
Speaking on the occasion, Faruk-e-Azam said Bangladesh’s geographical location makes it highly vulnerable to floods and natural disasters.
He noted that the government always works in partnership with humanitarian organisations during emergencies to safeguard lives and property.
“This generous support from the Government of China will significantly strengthen our disaster preparedness and rescue operations,” the adviser mentioned.
The ceremony was chaired by BDRCS Chairman Major General (Retd) Professor Dr Md Azizul Islam. Among others, BDRCS Vice Chairman Dr Tasnim Azim, BDRCS Secretary General Dr Kabir Md Ashraf Alam, BDRCS Treasurer Md Aminul Islam, and BDRCS Head of Delegation Alberto Bocanegra spoke at the event.
Later, Faruk-e-Azam and Yao Wen jointly inspected the newly handed-over rescue equipment.