Standing Together in Crisis: Flood Relief Efforts and the Generous Support of ISMAILI CIVIC and the Aga Khan Community

A reflection on the August 2024 flood in Bangladesh, highlighting It’s Humanity Foundation's relief efforts and the crucial support from ISMAILI CIVIC and the Aga Khan community.

In August 2024, Bangladesh faced one of the most severe flood disasters inits recent history. The crisis began when hydropower plants, barrages, and dams had to open their gates to manage the overwhelming water flow. This action led to unprecedented overflow, with water levels surpassing danger thresholds at 14critical points along seven transboundary rivers in Bangladesh. The situation quickly spiraled out of control as crucial flood-control structures, such asthe dam on the Gomati River, failed to withstand the pressure.

The floodwaters wreaked havoc across numerous regions, severely impacting areas like Feni, Cumilla, Noakhali, Khagrachhari, Habiganj, Chandpur, Cox'sBazar, Munshiganj, Sylhet, Lakshmipur, Chattogram, and Brahmanbaria. Over 5million people have been affected, with floodwaters inundating 74 upazilas, causing substantial damage to 541 unions and municipalities, and displacing approximately 1.2 million families.

In the wake of this catastrophe, It’s Humanity Foundation has been at theforefront of relief efforts. Our team has worked tirelessly to provide aid tothe most affected areas, including Sreepur (Chouddogram), Burichong (Cumilla),Shonaimuri (Noakhali), Begumganj (Noakhali), Lokkhipur (Noakhali), Nangolkot(Cumilla), Dagonbhuiyan (Feni), Khagrachari (Chittagong), and Shonagazi (Feni).From distributing essential food items and clean drinking water to providingmedical assistance and temporary shelter, our mission has been to alleviate thesuffering of those hardest hit by the floods.

During this challenging time, the support we’ve received from various communities and organizations has been crucial. Among them, the Aga Khan network and ISMAILI CIVIC community have played a particularly significant role in bolstering our relief efforts. Known globally for their commitment to humanitarian service and social development, their quick and generous response has had a profound impact on our ability to reach those in need.

The Aga Khan community and ISMAILI CIVIC community donated a full truck of emergency supplies, including dry foods, medicines, sanitary napkins, and other essential items. This contribution has been instrumental in our flood response campaign, enabling us to provide immediate and effective relief to thousands of affected families. The community's actions reflect their deep-seated values of compassion and service, reinforcing the importance of solidarity in times of crisis.

We at It’s Humanity Foundation are deeply grateful for the graceful support of the Aga Khan community and ISMAILI CIVIC Community. Their generosity has not only provided much-needed resources but has also inspired others to join in the relief efforts. Together, we continue to work towards helping the affected communities recover and rebuild, with the hope that brighter days lie ahead for all those who have suffered during this disaster.