On 24 August, Chief Adviser (CA) Muhammad Yunus convened a meeting at Jamuna with NGO leaders to discuss the ongoing flood response. Approximately 44 NGO leaders attended the meeting. Due to traffic, I arrived 30 minutes late, and for the first time, I noticed a surprisingly relaxed security environment at such a high-level event.
The CA graciously allowed me to speak, and during the tea break, I had the opportunity to engage with him further. Throughout the meeting, the CA provided ample space for everyone who wished to speak, ensuring that no one was interrupted or silenced.
During my remarks, I emphasized the critical need for restoring mobile networks and internet access in the Feni district, urging the CA to work with mobile companies to expedite this process. I also suggested that a formal request be made to Elon Musk to establish a business agreement with his company, Starlink, to initiate satellite phone and internet services in Bangladesh, similar to the agreement he has with Sri Lanka. This would be crucial in maintaining communication in the flood-affected areas.
Additionally, I highlighted the importance of reopening and making accessible key roads, such as the Mohipal to Chaggalnaiya Shubopur Korerhat road and the Mohipal to Porsuram Fulgazi and Belunia road, to ensure that relief workers can reach the most severely impacted areas without hindrance. I also brought attention to the law and order situation in the Korerhat to Mohipal area, particularly at the border of Mirreshorai and Feni district, specifically in the Gopal Union of Chaggalnaiya upazila, and urged agencies to prioritize addressing these issues.
I underscored the effectiveness of local NGOs in responding to the crisis. For instance, we are collaborating with PRAN in Maijdee, PRANTIC in Begumganj, and OPCA in Chagalnaiya, Porsuram, and Fulgazi.
The COAST Foundation has already established Community Kitchens in Ramgoti, Chilonia, Begumganj, Feni, and Budichong upazila of Comilla. NRDS in Noakhali is also doing commendable work. I urged the NGO leaders to partner with local NGOs in the flood response rather than engaging in direct operations. This approach aligns with the international localization commitment adopted under the Grand Bargain, led by the UN and INGOs. Our team is currently stationed in Feni, ready to enter Chagalnaiya, Porsuram, and Fulgazi as soon as conditions allow.
We have received support from PKSF, MRA, and Start Fund Bangladesh, which has been invaluable in our efforts. I also requested the HCA to initiate the production of Aman rice seedlings in universities and agricultural research institutes. These seedlings could be distributed to flood-affected areas immediately after the water recedes, aiding in recovery and food security.
The HCA emphasized the importance of establishing an NGO Committee to coordinate the flood response and assist in implementing reform activities. He noted that this is an opportune time to push for pro-people reform agendas.
During the meeting, our CDF (Credit and Development Forum) was vocal in advocating for these issues. I urged CDF, along with ADAB, FNB, and other organizations, to seize this opportunity to strengthen the NGO, MFI, and CSO sectors. We must mobilize people to support the pro-people reform activities of this Interim Government, upholding human rights and democratic principles.
Rezaul Karim Chowdhury is an executive director of COAST Foundation.
