DACCA: The flood situation in Comilla, Habiganj and Moulvi Bazar sub-divisions of Sylhet district has taken a serious turn, according to the latest reports received here tonight [July 13]. The situation in Comilla became alarming today following a breach in the embankment of the river Gumti which registered a new record in its water level. In Habiganj and Moulvi Bazar sub-divisions, the onrush of flood waters from Assam and heavy rainfall made the situation precarious.

While the overall flood situation showed signs of improvement in other parts of the province including Rangpur, Faridpur and Bogra, the condition in Chittagong, Faridpur and Bogra district, hitherto the badly devastated area, remained unchanged. The casualty figures mounted to 144, of which 57 have so far been officially confirmed.

Unsatiated river Gumti today crossed the all-time high record, registering a new peak causing a breach in its embankment at 1700 hours. The waters are now rushing towards south-west direction with great speed and it is feared Comilla town may be submerged by tomorrow morning. The district administration, with the help of other agencies, has pressed into service its entire machinery to evacuate the people already marooned and those who are to fall victims to the fury of floods.

Published in Dawn, July 14th, 2018