A sudden flash flood caused by upstream water and heavy rain has stranded 10,000 families in Sylhet city. Out of 42 city wards, 28 are submerged, leaving millions marooned.
From Monday morning, Sylhet City Corporation (SCC) councilors have been delivering dry food and clean water to flood victims. The Surma River’s rising levels have submerged the city’s canals, exacerbating the flood situation in low-lying areas. Several shelters have been opened, and some councilors are housing waterlogged residents in their homes.
SCC’s public relations officer, Sajlu Laskar, reported that most of Sylhet city is flood-affected. SCC is closely monitoring the situation, with officials on roster duty. An emergency service control room is operational 24/7 at 01958-284800.
Acting Mayor Md Mukhleshur Rahman Kamran and other officials visited affected areas and shelters, speaking with flood victims. Heavy rainfall from Sunday night caused new areas to flood. Assistant Meteorologist Shah Sajib Hossain recorded significant rainfall from Sunday to Monday, though it has since eased.
Approximately 90% of Sylhet city, including Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital (SOMCH), is waterlogged. Ground floors at SOMCH were flooded, disrupting medical services. According to the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB), the Surma River is flowing above danger levels at multiple points.
SOMCH’s director, Brigadier General Dr. Mahbubur Rahman Bhuiyan, reported flooding in almost every ground floor room. Despite previous warnings after last year’s flood, no preventative action was taken. Rainwater overflowed the hospital’s only drain, causing further disruption and concerns about potential disease outbreaks.
