Flood victims will be rehabilitated gradually: State Minister Mir Helal

He said these things in the speech of the chief guest at the relief distribution event among the flood victims at the rest house of Bandarban Hill District Council on Friday (July 17).

The State Minister said the Prime Minister is constantly monitoring the flood situation and providing necessary instructions regarding the extent of damage, people's suffering, and normalizing the situation quickly. Besides, representatives have also been sent to the field to monitor the situation.

He said although natural disasters are beyond human control, the government is trying its best to reduce the damage and stand by the affected people. Various government departments, public representatives, and concerned parties are working in a coordinated manner.

Mir Helal Uddin informed that considering the flood-affected small women entrepreneurs, the installments and interest of loans taken from various NGOs have been suspended or waived for one month. Discussions are ongoing with the concerned authorities to extend this period by another one or two months if necessary.

He further said that although it is not possible to rehabilitate everyone at once, the most affected families will be rehabilitated on a priority basis. Gradually, other affected families will also be brought under this program.

Addressing the farmers, the State Minister said those whose crops have been damaged will get necessary assistance by contacting the agriculture department. Besides, livestock in the flood-affected areas will be vaccinated free of cost.

He informed that from the Prime Minister's relief fund, along with relief materials, Tk 20 lakh has already been allocated to the District Commissioner. He also assured that more assistance would be provided if necessary.

Present at the relief distribution event were Bandarban Hill District Council Chairman Professor Thanjama Lusai, Member of Parliament Saching Pru Jerry, Reserved Women's Seat Member of Parliament Advocate Mabdi Marma, District Commissioner Md. Saniul Ferdous, Superintendent of Police Md. Wahabul Islam Khondkar, and other senior officials of the administration.