Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has instructed all relevant government agencies and field-level administrations to take the utmost precautionary measures and ensure close coordination to protect the lives and property of people affected by waterlogging triggered by heavy rainfall.
He issued the directives during a virtual meeting on Sunday with divisional commissioners, deputy inspectors general (DIGs) of police, deputy commissioners (DCs), superintendents of police (SPs), civil surgeons and other field-level officials from all eight divisions.
The meeting was held through the Zoom platform from the Prime Minister’s Office at the Secretariat, where field-level officials updated him on the latest situation in their respective areas.
Officials briefed the prime minister on the latest waterlogging situation in their respective areas, including the extent of damage, conditions at shelter centres, rescue operations, relief distribution and the progress of medical services.
Tarique Rahman said ensuring the safety of people and their property must be the administration’s highest priority during the disaster situation.
“There can be no room for negligence,” he said, instructing authorities to ensure the prompt distribution of relief materials, including dry food, safe drinking water, baby food, essential medicines and healthcare services, to affected people.
He also directed officials to ensure a safe environment at shelters, including adequate sanitation, electricity and communication facilities.
Special attention should be given to women, children, elderly people, persons with disabilities and pregnant women, he added.
The prime minister asked law enforcement agencies to remain alert to prevent any criminal activities taking advantage of the situation, including theft, robbery, hoarding and misuse of relief materials.
He also called for transparency and accountability in relief operations, ensuring that assistance reaches the people most affected by the disaster.
The meeting reviewed overall disaster preparedness, local administration measures, coordination among agencies involved in rescue operations, river water levels and weather forecasts.
Officials from Chattogram told the meeting that waterlogging in the area had started to improve gradually.
However, they said the situation in Sylhet was deteriorating due to damage to the Manu River embankment, while parts of Rangpur division faced the risk of fresh waterlogging.
Following the updates, the prime minister directed authorities to remain fully prepared to tackle emerging risks, arrange necessary manpower and equipment, and continue working in coordination to support affected communities.
