The recent devastating floods in the southeastern region have caused a loss of property worth Tk 14,421 crore, according to a report by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD). Fahmida Khatun, executive director of the CPD presented the findings at press conference held at the CPD office in Dhanmondi on Sunday. She also spoke on the damages and rehabilitation process in the southeastern region including Comilla, Feni, Noakhali and Laxmipur districts. CPD study on debt portfolio flags fast rising external debt as 'reason for concern' "The recent severe floods in the southeastern region caused a loss of Tk 14421 crore, which is 26 percent of the GDP. Agriculture and forest sectors suffered the most which is equivalent to Tk 5169 crore," said Fahmida. Mentioning that there was a loss of Tk 4,653 crore in the infrastructure sector, and damages to houses caused loss of Tk 2,407 crore, Fahmida also said that Noakhali district suffered the highest losses with 4191 crores, followed by Comilla district with losses of Tk 3390 crore.

Inundations cause many kinds of damages to lives and properties. In flood-affected areas, people are not fully out of risk even after the flood water recedes. Here are some necessary precautions to save adults and children from diseases and accidents after the floods.  Necessary Safety Measures to Minimise Health Risk after Floods Purify Water Before Drinking After a flood, waterborne diseases become a significant risk. To prevent water-borne diseases like cholera, diarrhea, etc it is essential to manage potable water for drinking, cooking, and washing cookeries. When the flood water recedes, people should purify water by boiling or using water-purification tablets. Besides these, storing rainwater can be a temporary solution.   Read more: Ways to Purify Water during Flood, Disaster, Emergency Situations During inundation, tubewells may get contaminated with low levels of faecal organisms.  However, water from deep tubewell is safer.  Avoid Contaminated Water The contaminated flood water should not be used for drinking, cooking, or washing clothes, as it may contain harmful bacteria and pollutants that could affect health. People should avoid wading through the remnant flood water while walking or passing by. The associated risk of touching or playing in the stagnant flood water should be discussed with children.  Read more: How to Help Flood-affected People in Bangladesh Protection from Snakes and Insects  Floods often displace wildlife, including snakes, which can pose a threat. Be vigilant in and around the homestead area. Consult with kids to avoid playing in areas with tall grass or debris to avoid snake bites.  Furthermore, use insect repellents for protection against mosquitoes, which can spread diseases like dengue. Sleeping under a mosquito net is also advisable for added protection. Read more: How to Stay Safe from Snakes During and After Flood

Recent floods in Bangladesh, particularly in Feni, Cumilla, and Noakhali, have highlighted the need for immediate assistance. In these critical times, proper coordination and understanding of the local challenges are essential to deliver targeted assistance in flood-stricken regions. This article highlights the critical insights volunteers must possess to manage relief distribution and rescue operations during floods efficiently. Essential Relief Supplies for Flood-Affected People Readymade Foods In flood conditions, where water levels can be chest-high, the immediate priority is saving lives. Cooking facilities may be inaccessible, making cooked or readymade foods crucial. Substitute rice, lentils, oil, and sugar with items like puffed rice, flattened rice, dates, bread, and boiled potatoes. Packaged foods such as biscuits, nuts, oat bars, and cakes can provide long-lasting energy. If feasible, khichuri would be better. Safe Drinking Water and Water Purification Tablets Access to clean drinking water is critically limited during floods. Carry bottled water or water-purifying tablets and alum to enable individuals to purify water themselves, particularly benefiting those who are housebound. Baby Food and Clothing Children of all ages are at high risk during floods. Provide baby food in addition to general supplies, including powdered milk, rice cereal, semolina, juice, packets of soup, and chips. Additionally, dry clothes and diapers are essential to protect against wet and cold conditions, preventing health complications. Read more: How to Avoid Electric or Gas-related Accidents during Flood Medicines and Medical Equipment Stock essential medicines for waterborne diseases, skin conditions, high blood pressure, cold, fever, cough, and headache. Saline is crucial for treating diarrhea. Equip with first aid supplies, including bandages and antiseptic solutions for wound care. Repellents for Snakes, Mosquitoes, and Insects Floods often bring increased risks of snake bites and insect infestations. Marigold flowers, wormwood, garlic, clove oil, and vinegar can be used to deter snakes. Mosquito coils, sprays, skin lotions, and insect-repellent devices should also be included. Safety instructions for these items must be followed, as sprays can be harmful to newborns and coils may pose fire risks. Clothing for Wet Conditions Prolonged exposure to rain and flood waters can lead to discomfort and illness. The supply list includes dry clothes, umbrellas, and raincoats. Life jackets and sanitary pads are necessary for safety and health. Waterproof bags or plastic zippers are essential for protecting documents and electronics. Read more: How to Stay Safe from Snakes During and After Flood Cleaning Supplies To combat diseases caused by polluted water and humidity, the supplies include soap, detergent, dishwashing powder, and disinfectants like Bheem Bar for sanitation. Battery-Powered Torchlight Power outages during floods make battery-powered torches essential for safety after dark. Using candles or lamps should be avoided due to the risk of gas leaks, which can lead to fire hazards. Food for Cattle and Stray Animals Many flood victims rely on livestock for their livelihood. The food encompasses husks, salt, and hay. Additionally, stray dogs and cats, which face significant hardships during floods, should also be provided with food and care.

Flood control methods aim to minimise and prevent the detrimental effects of flood waters on road surfaces, human habitats and green spaces. Flooding can be caused by heavy rain or manmade changes to water bodies and water flows. To control the impact of flooding, countries around the world have taken diverse structural and non-structural types of initiatives. Reasons Behind Flooding: Why Water Overflows Flash floods can be triggered by natural phenomena, such as heavy rainfall, severe wind flows above water, tsunamis, cyclones, high tides, etc.   Now, what happens when huge amounts of water rush down? A portion of this water is retained in water bodies (rivers, lakes, canals, ponds, etc), vegetation, and soil surface while some water gets evaporated, and the rest of water passes through surface runoff. Floods occur when water bodies, soil, and vegetation cannot absorb the excess water. Human activities can influence the creation of excess water or prevent the natural ways of water absorption, retention or run-off. For example, deforestation, inadequate green spaces, failures/breakage/willful opening of dams or barrages, insufficient water reservoirs, impervious or paved surfaces, blocked drainage systems, clogged water bodies, etc can lead to inundation.  Read more: What Can Dhaka Learn from the Smart City Singapore Structural Methods to Control Inundation Structural flood control methods include man-made physical solutions, such as the construction of dams or barrages, water reservoirs, river dredging,  planting vegetation, etc. Besides, well-functioning drainage systems, channels to divert flood water, levees (dikes), etc are man-made structures to fight floods.  Barrages or Dams Dams or Barrages are designed to control the flow of water completely or partially. In the case of large barrages, associated reservoirs are built to create a space to hold the floodwater.  Dams are also used to generate hydroelectric power and water conservation. Construction and designs of barrages and the associated reservoirs depend upon standards set out by the respective governments. Usually, dams and reservoirs are built considering the watershed’s design flow rates, meteorological data, topographic features, streamflow, soil data, etc. However, dry dams serve for flood control only without any conservation storage. Diversion tunnels or canals Flood control tunnels or channels refer to empty large basins where the surface water can flow through. The water will be retained only during flooding periods.  These types of structures also include dry tunnels or channels that are built underground and run below the street levels of cities. When a flash flood occurs the excess surface water is drained out through these underground structures into a sea, river or other water bodies.  In many cases, underground flood tunnels or channels are built on the ancient natural waterways to reduce flooding. Read more: Green Roofs in Dhaka City: Pathway to Smart Urban Agriculture Floodplains and groundwater replenishment Groundwater replenishment is a great way to utilise the excess surface water. In this method, the flood is diverted onto land so that the soil can absorb excess water. The recharging of groundwater tables not only prevents flooding but also serves as a natural reservoir. People can extract the underground water through pumps during dry seasons or droughts.  River defences Rivers can cut down the risk of inundation by holding the water. Regular dredging is essential to preserve the navigability of the rivers during flooding. Structures such as reservoirs, levees, bunds, weirs, etc can be built to prevent rivers from overflowing their banks.  Flood barrier A flood barrier is also known as a surge barrier or storm surge barrier. This structure refers to a specific type of floodgate, designed to prevent inundation in the protected area behind the barrier. Flood barriers can also be built around individual buildings to prevent floodwaters from entering the buildings. Non-structural Ways to Prevent Flooding & Minimise Losses Non-structural flood control methods include flood risk management strategies, land-use planning, zoning, flood proofing, flood forecasting, advanced flood warning systems, flood insurance, evacuation of flood victims, rebuilding plans, etc.  Flood mapping Governments and policymakers utilise flood mapping as a tool to delineate the areas of potential flooding events, assisting planned decisions to prevent extreme flooding occurrences. Flood maps help create documentation for experts and policymakers to make informed decisions about flood hazards. It also generates conceptual models with information for public and private sectors about flooding hazards.  Flood modelling Flood modelling is another tool that is used to anticipate the severity of flood hazards and their effects on humans and structures. Flood modelling is conducted by combining diverse factors such as terrain, hydrology, urban topography, etc. This technology utilises geomorphic methods, remote sensing, hydraulic models, conceptual models, etc.  Stakeholder engagement Integrating stakeholder engagement into flood management provides a more complex analysis of the situation and allows enhanced public engagement in policy discussions. This creates paths for collective solutions through greater cohesion and consensus.  Flood risk assessment (FRM) Flood risk assessment can help to reduce the human casualties, and socio-economic losses caused by flooding. FRM is used to reduce flood risk and manage risks to lives and properties due to flooding.  Examples by country Canada To protect Manitoba from future floods, the authorities constructed a massive system of diversions, dikes, and floodways including the Red River Floodway and the Portage Diversion.  United States The USA took multiple flood barrier projects to protect the transit assets in Manhattan. In one case, they sealed subway entrances using a deployable fabric cover system called Flex-Gate that protects the subway entrances against 14 feet of water.  The USA revised their extreme storm flood protection based on new Federal Emergency Management Agency guidelines for 100y and 500y design flood elevations. After the 1993 flood across the Midwest, the federal government bought flood-prone lands as a part of their flood prevention plans. Several communities agreed and the government converted their lands into wetlands. These wetlands served as a sponge when storms and floods occurred.  Japan Tokyo built a 6.3 km long, 50-metre-deep concrete tunnel system called the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel (MAOUDC). This tunnel diverts flood water from small to midsize rivers to the Edogawa River.

As floodwaters rise, water’s conductivity heightens the threat of electric shocks, and it can also compromise gas lines, leading to hazardous leaks and explosions. These situations demand effective and prompt preventive measures to protect flood victims. Let’s explore necessary actions for immediate safety and to prevent unforeseen accidents during floods. Safety Measures to Prevent Electric and Gas Hazards During Floods Turn Off Power and Gas Supply Immediately When flooding occurs, it is imperative to promptly deactivate the gas and main power supplies to mitigate serious accidents. Water's conductive properties significantly increase the risk of shocks and fires when it interacts with cables, wires, and equipment. To prevent these dangers, locate and turn off the gas valves and main power switch as soon as flooding begins. For those unfamiliar with the process, using insulated tools to handle switches and valves is crucial to avoid direct contact with water. If turning off these systems presents any challenge, evacuate the area and contact professionals for assistance. Immediate action in this regard is vital to safeguarding against electrical and gas-related accidents. Read More: Fixing Wet Phones: What to do if your phone falls into the water? Avoid Contact with Electrical Devices Unplugging all electric devices and appliances is vital amidst flooding to avert significant risks. Exposure to water can cause short circuits in equipment, increasing the likelihood of electric shocks and fires. It is critical to ensure that devices are disconnected from sources if they are wet or if there is standing water in the vicinity. In situations where unplugging electric connections or devices is not feasible, a safe distance from any equipment and avoiding its use should be maintained. This preventive measure helps minimize the potential adversities and ensures safety during and after flooding. Moving to an Elevated, Safe Location Waterlogged areas pose significant threats, including potential electric shocks from submerged sources and damage to gas lines. To avoid contact with water that may be electrically charged or contain dangerous materials, relocating to elevated areas is essential. Read more: Ways to Purify Water during Flood, Disaster, Emergency Situations Establishing a safe refuge in a higher location reduces exposure to immediate dangers. It also enhances overall safety by keeping away from potential accidents such as downed power lines or compromised infrastructure. It is important to assess the surroundings carefully and select a secure, elevated spot to ensure maximum protection from flood-related risks.

The ongoing flood is wreaking havoc on human lives, livestock, wildlife, and properties in affected areas of Bangladesh. Floodwater is washing away houses, trees, cattle, and people with the current. Apart from the rampage of floodwater, people also die from snake bites and other poisonous insects during the rainy season. To prevent such unwanted loss of lives, mass awareness is needed. Why Do Floods Increase Snake Movement? Floodwaters disrupt the natural environment, forcing snakes to leave their habitats in search of dry land. In a country like Bangladesh, where rivers crisscross the landscape, the risk of encountering snakes during and after a flood is particularly high. These reptiles may enter homes, fields, and even urban areas as they seek refuge from the rising waters. Types of Snakes Commonly Found in Flood-Affected Areas In Bangladesh, both venomous and non-venomous snakes prevail. A few of the common species are: Russell’s Viper: One of the most dangerous venomous snakes in Bangladesh.Common Krait: Known for its potent venom and nocturnal behavior.Spectacled Cobra: A venomous snake that is often found in residential areas.Rat Snake: Non-venomous but can be mistaken for a cobra due to its size. Knowing the types of snakes in your area can help you stay vigilant and take appropriate precautions. Read more: Russell's Viper: Myths, Facts, and Everything You Need to Know Cautions Before Inundation to Minimise the Risk of Snake Encounters  Preparation is key to reducing the risk of snake attacks during a flood. Here are some steps you can take before the floodwaters rise: Secure Your Home Ensure that your home is as snake-proof as possible. Check for gaps and holes in walls, doors, and windows where snakes could enter. Seal these openings with caulk or other suitable materials. Pay special attention to areas around pipes and drains, as snakes can use these as entry points. Clear Your Surroundings Keep your yard and surrounding areas clear of debris, tall grass, and piles of wood or trash. These can serve as hiding spots for snakes. Regularly trim bushes to reduce the likelihood of snakes taking up residence near your home. Read more: Essential Snake Safety Tips for Hiking, Trekking, Camping, and Traveling Double-check Household Items Store food, water, and other essential items on elevated platforms to avoid attracting snakes into your home during a flood. Snakes may enter buildings in search of food, and eliminating potential food sources can reduce this risk. Educate Your Family Teach your family members, especially children, about the dangers of snakes and how to identify common species in your area. Make sure everyone knows how to respond if they encounter a snake, including keeping a safe distance and notifying an adult immediately. Safety Measures During the Flood to Avoid Snake Attacks When floodwaters rise, snakes are more likely to be on the move. Here’s how to stay safe: Stay Indoor If possible, stay indoor during the height of the flood. Snakes may be swimming in the water or seeking shelter on dry ground. Avoid wading through floodwaters, especially in areas where visibility is low. Read more: Hollywood's Top 10 Most Thrilling Snake Films Use a Stick to Probe Ahead If you must walk through floodwaters, use a long stick to probe the ground ahead of you. This can help you detect any hidden snakes before stepping on them. Wear boots and long pants to protect your legs from potential bites. Be Cautious Around Debris Floodwaters can carry debris like logs, branches, and trash, which may provide hiding spots for snakes. Be cautious when moving or working near debris, and avoid reaching into areas where you cannot see clearly. Keep Your Home Well-Lit Snakes tend to avoid well-lit areas. If you’re using a generator or battery-powered lights, keep your home well-lit at night to deter snakes from entering. Read more: Russell's Viper: Myths, Facts, and Everything You Need to Know

At least eighteen people died and nearly 51 lakh people were affected as floods wreaked more havoc in vast areas of 11 districts. Of the total deaths, four died in Cumilla, one in Feni, five in Chattogram, three in Noakhali, one each in Brahmanbaria and Laxmipur and three in Cox’s Bazar districts, the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief said in a statement updated at 7pm on Saturday. So far, some 50,93,539 people have been affected and a total of 3,513 shelter centers have been opened where 3,01,993 people and 21,695 cattle took shelter. Meanwhile, a sum of Tk 3.52 crore has been allocated in the 11 flood-hit districts while 20,150 tonnes of rice, 15,000 packets/sacks of dry foods and baby foods and fodder worth Tk 70 lakh were allocated. A total of 769 medical teams have been kept prepared to provide medical treatment in the flood affected areas and the army personnel and district civil surgeons are providing medical services. Besides, adequate relief materials have been stocked in all districts of the country, said the ministry adding that the deputy commissioners of the flood-affected districts have been instructed to work together in coordination with the coordinator of the anti-discrimination student movement, army, navy, medical team and other volunteers. A control room has been opened in the ministry to monitor the flood situation and a hotline number 02-55101115 was opened to provide immediate services. Advisor and Secretary to the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief visited the flood affected areas to monitor the flood situation and the adviser is curently staying at Feni. Those interested in providing assistance to the victims of the recent severe floods can send the assistance to the Chief Adviser's Relief and Welfare Fund at the following account name and number. Account Name: 'Principal Adviser's Relief and Welfare Fund', Bank: Sonali Bank Corporate Branch, Chief Adviser's Office, Account No: 0107333004093. Earlier, Disaster Management and Relief Secretary Md Kamrul Hasan said there is no possibility of heavy rainfall in the northeastern part of the country and adjoining upstream in the next 24 hours. The flood situation in Moulvibazar and Habiganj districts adjacent to the Manu, Khowai and Dholai rivers is likely to improve during this period, he added. Besides, there is no possibility of heavy rainfall in the southeastern part of the country and adjoining upstream in the next 24 hours.  Flood situation is expected to improve in the adjoining areas of Muhuri, Feni, Gumti and Halda rivers in Feni, Cumilla and Chattogram districts of the region.

As severe floods devastate 11 districts of the country, citizens and volunteer groups have rallied alongside the government to provide much-needed relief to those affected. From Dhaka to remote regions, people are coming together in a show of unprecedented solidarity, delivering essential supplies and rescuing stranded victims. Across the country, individuals and non-governmental organizations are filling covered vans, trucks, and pick-ups with dry food, essential medicines, safe drinking water, and staples like rice and lentils. Cash donations are also being handed directly to flood victims. In addition to these efforts, volunteers from various parts of the country are bringing boats and speedboats by truck to flood-hit areas to assist in rescue operations. Many have remarked that such unity in the face of disaster is unlike anything they have seen before. Meanwhile, numerous government and private institutions have also joined the cause, with employees donating a day's salary to support flood victims. ‘Gonotran’: Mass Relief Collection at Dhaka University’s TSC At Dhaka University's Teacher-Student Centre (TSC), people from all walks of life have been pouring in with donations since last Thursday. The “Gonotran” (Mass Relief Collection) initiative, called by the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, has garnered overwhelming support.  Thousands of people have participated, contributing cash and relief supplies to the effort. On the first day alone, significant amounts of food, clothing, sanitary napkins, and several lakhs of taka were collected. By Friday afternoon, the influx of donations had only increased, with trucks, pick-ups, vans, rickshaws, and private cars arriving at TSC filled with relief materials for the flood-affected. Read more: New areas flooded in Cumilla : 7 lakh people still trapped Even children are contributing their savings to the cause. With the TSC cafeteria and game room filled to capacity with supplies, additional storage has been arranged in the central auditorium and TSC’s hallways. A queue of vehicles bringing donations has formed in the TSC area, while over 300 school and college students are volunteering to package the relief items. Abdul Munim, a coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement’s medical team, expressed his amazement at the public's response. "We have never seen such a united effort from the general public before. It feels like a new movement to build a stronger Bangladesh has begun. This is our first test, and we are confident that together, we will pass it," he said. Fundraising Efforts Spread Across Dhaka’s Streets In addition to the major initiatives, students are collecting donations at several locations in Dhaka. Youth groups in neighborhoods are also gathering funds and supplies for the flood victims. Military and Emergency Services Mobilize for Flood Relief The police, army, navy, air force, coast guard, and fire service are actively working in flood-affected areas to assist residents. They are distributing dry and cooked food, while also conducting rescue operations using helicopters in the most severely impacted regions. One Day’s Salary Donated to Flood Victims Members of the Bangladesh Army have donated the equivalent of one day's salary to the Chief Adviser’s Relief Fund, while employees of various government and private organizations have done the same through platforms like Nagad and bKash. Additional relief funds have been established by several autonomous institutions. Read more: Prices of dry food, candle, drinking water shot up in flood-hit areas Mobile Operators Provide Free Minutes and Internet for Flood Victims In a bid to support those affected by the flood, the country's major mobile operators, including Grameenphone, Banglalink, Robi, Airtel, and the state-owned Teletalk, have announced free talk time and internet packages. Imams Urge Support for Flood Victims During Friday’s Jummah Prayers During Friday’s Jummah prayers, Imams across the country, including in the capital, spoke about the sufferings of flood victims and urged people to offer assistance according to their means. They also led prayers for the victims and many mosques have started collecting donations for flood relief. Free Rebooking for Missed Flights Due to Floods In light of the ongoing floods, passengers who miss flights due to travel difficulties are being allowed to rebook their tickets for free. This directive has been issued to 33 airlines operating from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Group Captain Md. Kamrul Islam, the airport’s Executive Director, has requested airlines to cooperate with passengers facing such challenges. As the nation grapples with one of its most severe flood crises in recent memory, the unity and determination of its people offer hope for recovery and resilience. Read more: Deadly flood claims 18 lives, affects over 48 lakh people across 11 districts: Govt

Flood situation in Cumilla district deteriorated further with the flooding of fresh areas in the past 24 hours till Saturday, leaving seven lakh people stranded. The water level of Gumti River is flowing 80 cm above its danger mark during this period. The volunteers are seen struggling to distribute relief materials in the flood-hit areas due to lack of boats as roads were submerged. 1235 mobile towers out of order in 10 flood-hit districts: BTRC According to the local administration, a total of 726 shelter centres were opened in the district and some 50,000 people took shelter in those centres. A total of 340 metric tonnes of rice and Tk 15 lakh cash have been allocated for the flood-affected people in the district while a total of 225 medical teams were kept ready to provide medical treatments. Severe flooding devastates Fatikchhari

Every year, floods in Bangladesh unleash devastating impacts, displacing thousands and creating acute shortage of essentials. This recurring crisis underscores the urgent need for increased support. Effective assistance can significantly alleviate immediate suffering and aid in recovery. Active participation from individuals, organizations, and the global community is crucial to address these challenges and help communities rebuild their lives. Let's explore how to take meaningful action to support flood victims. Critical Approaches to Help Flood Victims in Bangladesh Conducting Immediate Rescue Operations Rescuing individuals often involves deploying boats to navigate through floodwaters and reach stranded persons. These boats can navigate through submerged streets and areas, allowing rescuers to reach those cut off from dry land. Speedboats can be utilized for faster response and to cover larger areas efficiently. In severe cases, helicopters are essential for reaching inaccessible or heavily flooded regions. They can airlift individuals from isolated locations, bypassing obstructed or hazardous terrain. Volunteering When it comes to vital hands-on support, volunteers can make a tangible difference in flood-affected areas. This turbulent period raises great demands on various aspects of disaster response, including distributing aid, setting up temporary shelters, and assisting with medical care. By organizing and distributing food, water, and other essential supplies, volunteers ensure that resources reach those who need them the most. In addition, volunteers can support clean-up and rebuilding work, which are vital for restoring communities and infrastructure. Providing emotional support and reassurance to flood survivors is also an important aspect of volunteering, helping to boost morale and strengthen community resilience. Read more: Landslide Safety, Preparedness Tips: Dos and Don'ts Provide Emergency Supplies Distributing non-perishable food items and clean drinking water helps prevent water-borne diseases, malnutrition, and dehydration, which are prevalent in flood-affected areas. Providing warm clothing, blankets, and sleeping mats can also help people fight colds.  Additionally, essential medical supplies such as first aid kits, medications, and hygiene products are vital for treating injuries and deterring disease outbreaks. Besides delivering emergency supplies to the government flood shelters and local people’s houses, temporary shelters, such as colleges, schools, or local multi-storied buildings, where local people take shelter, should also be covered.  Collaborating with local organizations or community groups can enhance the effectiveness of relief distribution, ensuring that aids reach those in greatest need promptly and efficiently. Read more: How to be Safe During and After Heavy Rains Raise Awareness Utilizing social media platforms, local media, and community outreach effectively informs a wider audience about the damage and urgent needs of those affected. Highlighting specific aspects, such as the shortage of clean water, medical supplies, or temporary shelters, can mobilize resources and prompt action from individuals and organizations. Awareness campaigns can also encourage donations and volunteer work, fostering a sense of global solidarity and prompting government and international responses. It facilitates keeping the issue visible and ensures it remains a priority for donors and policymakers. Fund Health and Sanitation Initiatives Flooding can lead to contamination of water sources, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases. Funding projects that provide access to clean water and sanitation facilities, such as portable toilets and water purification systems, can significantly improve public health.  Moreover, initiatives like mobile health clinics can be helpful for flood-affected people to provide medical care, vaccinations, and treatment for diseases to address immediate health concerns.  Read more: What can COP27 do for climate vulnerable countries? When the flood water recedes, conducting health education programs can teach proper hygiene practices is an effective approach. It also ensures that communities remain resilient in the face of inundation challenges.