Bangladesh is no stranger to the ravages of natural disasters, but the recent floods have struck with a suddenness that has left approximately 360,000 people across 12 districts struggling to cope. The devastation has claimed 24 lives, with many more still missing. Heavy rains and landslides from India’s Tripura have inundated vast areas, including Feni, Comilla, Noakhali, Brahmanbaria, Chittagong, Khagrachari, Rangamati, Cox’s Bazar, Laxmipur, Sylhet, Moulvibazar, and Habiganj. In response, efforts are underway at both governmental and private levels to relocate affected individuals to safer areas and provide them with essential supplies.
Amidst these efforts, Nahid Islam, the interim government’s information adviser, has voiced criticism, pointing to India’s alleged role in exacerbating the situation. He accused India of opening the dam without proper warning or preparation, labeling this act as inhumane and uncooperative. “We hope that India will withdraw from such policies against the people of Bangladesh as soon as possible,” Nahid stated, echoing the growing anger among the Bangladeshi public and students.
The question remains: is the opening of the Dambur Dam in Tripura, India, truly the cause of the floods in Bangladesh? The Ministry of External Affairs in Bangladesh has clarified that the release of water from the Indian dam on the Gomti River did not directly lead to the floods. Instead, the heavy rainfall in the Gomti River’s catchment area, which extends across both India and Bangladesh, has been identified as the primary cause of the flooding.
Meanwhile, Indian High Commissioner Prannoy Verma met with Muhammad Yunus, the chief adviser to the interim government in Dhaka, to discuss the unprecedented flooding. During their meeting, Yunus proposed the formation of a high-level committee between Bangladesh and India to collaboratively address severe flood situations. While he did not explicitly blame India for the floods, the suggestion indicates a desire for more cooperation in managing such disasters.
Bangladesh is currently navigating a period of significant political change, with stability yet to return across all sectors. In this context, it is crucial to consider whether it is appropriate to politicize natural disasters like floods, especially when longstanding issues related to river water distribution between Bangladesh and India already exist. Dr. Ainun Nishat, a respected hydrologist, noted, “There is always politics with water—how much a country will give, how much it will release.” However, he emphasized that this flood is not a matter of politics but rather a natural calamity that demands unity and cooperation.
Despite the challenges, the floods have brought out a remarkable display of solidarity among the people of Bangladesh. At the heart of this response is a deep sense of community and compassion. A poignant example is 10-year-old Ihan, who, accompanied by his parents, brought his small savings to Dhaka University to aid the flood victims. Ihan is not alone; people of all ages, classes, and professions—from corporate professionals to day laborers and rickshaw pullers—have gathered at the university’s TSC, bringing money, dry food, medicines, and other essential items.
For the first time in years, Dhaka University has witnessed such a large and diverse gathering of people united for a common cause. The anti-discrimination student movement, which announced a public relief program last Wednesday, has seen an overwhelming response. The TSC area is abuzz with activity, as students from nearly every department and residential hall collect funds, food, and clothing for those affected by the floods. This outpouring of support is not limited to Dhaka University; students from various universities and colleges have also joined the public relief efforts.
This is the true essence of Bangladesh—a country where communal harmony shines brightest in times of crisis. In Comilla’s Nangalkot, Hindus have taken refuge in a mosque, while Muslims have sought shelter in a temple in Feni’s Indranagar. Instead of celebrating Janmashtami, Hindu communities are donating funds set aside for the upcoming Durga Puja to aid flood victims. Mosques and temples stand side by side, embodying the spirit of unity and mutual respect that defines Bangladesh.
In the aftermath of political upheaval and the challenges of rebuilding a nation, the floods have once again demonstrated the resilience and unity of the Bangladeshi people. The scene at Dhaka University’s relief collection center is a testament to the strength of these bonds. People from all walks of life—students, businesspeople, and professionals—are working tirelessly to collect money, food, clothing, and medicine for those affected by the floods. The scale of generosity is staggering, with Tk 1 crore 26 lakh 22 thousand 172 raised at the TSC alone, while the As-Sunnah Foundation received approximately Tk 20 crore in donations in just one day.
This is the spirit of Bangladesh—a country united in the face of adversity, where no evil forces can break the bonds of harmony and compassion that define its people. This is Bangladesh—another Bangladesh.