WFP Supports Flood Response Efforts with Food Assistance for Communities in the Most Severely Affected Districts

DHAKA – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has launched its response to the severe flooding emergency in Bangladesh, which has affected over 5 million people across the southeastern and northeastern regions, particularly in the Chattogram and Sylhet Divisions.

In collaboration with national NGO partners, WFP is on the ground delivering immediate relief to the hardest-hit communities. A total of 60,000 families (about 300,000 people) are receiving fortified biscuits to address their urgent food needs. Distributions have already commenced in Cumilla, Feni, Noakhali, and Moulvibazar, and will soon start in Laxmipur and Cox’s Bazar districts.

Amid the flooding, which has been worsening since 20 August, extensive damage to infrastructure has also left many communities stranded and without access to essential services. 

“We have kickstarted our response addressing the immediate food needs of affected communities, in support of government-led relief efforts,” said Simone Parchment, WFP Representative in Bangladesh. “Our focus is on delivering food assistance to families in shelters who have insufficient food stocks and lack the means to cook for themselves.”

Starting 26 August, WFP have joined a rapid assessment mission led by the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office. Based on the needs identified on the ground, WFP stands ready to scale up its response if required, including the provision of food packages and cash-based support where markets are functioning. Additionally, the organization is preparing to launch cash-for-work schemes aimed at rebuilding critical infrastructure, such as water management systems, roads, and embankments.

For more information please contact: Tashfin Chowdhury, Communications Officer, WFP Bangladesh, tashfin.chowdhury@wfp.org