NGO Leaders Call for Coordinated Efforts in Rescue, Relief, and Post-Flood Crisis Response
Dhaka, August 24, 2024 — Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the interim government, held an emergency meeting with the country’s leading NGO representatives on Thursday at the state guesthouse Jamuna to address the ongoing devastating flood situation.
Representatives from 44 NGOs working in flood-affected and coastal areas of Bangladesh participated in the meeting. Ghashful was represented by its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Aftabur Rahman Jafree. The gathering reflected a strong example of the development sector’s role in standing beside the nation during times of crisis.
At the meeting, the Chief Adviser urged NGOs to “stand by the people and strengthen coordination.” He further stated:
“The devastation caused by the flood is not only about the present moment; new struggles will emerge once the waters recede. Food shortages, health risks, livelihood restoration—these will be the major challenges, and we must prepare for them.”
Emphasizing the need for stronger government–NGO collaboration, he called for joint efforts in rescue operations, emergency relief distribution, health assistance, and long-term rehabilitation. He appealed to all NGO representatives to work collectively on the ground and remain prepared for the potential post-flood crises.
Meanwhile, Ghashful’s trained Emergency Rescue Team has already been active in the flood-hit areas of Feni and Chattogram districts. A total of 70 rescue workers have been deployed across 14 points, including Shagolnaiya, Feni Sadar, Lemuya Point, Baraiyerhat, Mirsarai, Hathazari, and Fatikchhari.
Alongside urgent rescue efforts, Ghashful has distributed dry food, oral saline, safe drinking water, and essential medical supplies among the affected population. Looking ahead, the organization has also planned several post-flood initiatives including medical camps, livestock treatment camps, nutrition support, mental health assistance for women and children, and livelihood rehabilitation programs.