Chattogram DC Cancels All Leave, Says Saving Lives Is the Top Priority Amid Flood Crisis
- Update Time :Thursday, July 9, 2026
As relentless rain, hill runoff, and flooding leave more than 450,000 people stranded, the Chattogram Deputy Commissioner has cancelled all leave for district administration officials to ensure uninterrupted emergency response.
Ilias Ripon, CTG MAIL :
In response to the ongoing flood emergency triggered by five consecutive days of heavy rainfall, hill runoff, and widespread waterlogging, the Chattogram district administration has cancelled all types of leave, including weekly holidays, for its officials and employees.
Speaking to journalists at the Deputy Commissioner’s office on Thursday, Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miah said all government personnel have been instructed to remain in the field until public safety is fully ensured.
According to the district administration, at least 450,000 people have been stranded across the district, with Satkania Upazila suffering the most severe damage, where nearly 70 percent of the area remains submerged.
The Deputy Commissioner stressed that saving human lives is the administration’s highest priority and urged residents living in vulnerable areas to move immediately to nearby cyclone and flood shelters.
A total of 629 emergency shelters have been prepared across the district. Around 8,000 people have already taken refuge in shelters located in Satkania, Lohagara, and Chandanaish, where food, safe drinking water, and essential healthcare services are being provided.
To support relief efforts, the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief has allocated 200 metric tonnes of rice and Tk 1 million in emergency assistance. An additional Tk 2 million has been provided from the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund.
The Deputy Commissioner also said that 10 speedboats have been requested to strengthen rescue operations in Satkania. Rescue teams are currently conducting evacuation missions using boats in the flood-hit areas.
He added that if necessary, residents of high-risk areas will be evacuated with the assistance of law enforcement agencies.
“There is nothing more valuable than human life,” the Deputy Commissioner said, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to protecting residents during the ongoing disaster.
