World Food Programme Launches Early Flood Response in Sylhet Haor Region

Bangla Press Desk:   The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has activated its anticipatory action response to provide early assistance to communities at risk of severe flooding in Moulvibazar and Habiganj districts in the Sylhet Division.

Under the programme, which uses weather forecasts and predefined triggers to deliver aid before disasters strike, cash assistance has been transferred directly to vulnerable households ahead of expected peak flooding.

According to a press release issued on 30 April 2026, Tk5,000 has been provided to affected families to help them prepare in advance by purchasing food, essential items and taking steps to protect their homes and livelihoods. The first round of cash disbursement began on Wednesday evening, ahead of flood peaks expected within 48 hours.

As of Thursday, more than 20,000 households have received cash assistance and early warning messages. In addition, 4,400 households under government social safety net programmes are also being provided with cash top-ups to meet emergency needs.

The initiative is being supported through funding from the WFP trust fund and the European Commission’s Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO). It is being implemented in collaboration with the Government of Bangladesh.

WFP said the anticipatory approach helps reduce loss of lives and livelihoods by enabling families to act before flooding occurs, rather than responding after disasters.

“As climate shocks become more frequent and severe, early action is essential,” said Simone Parchment, WFP Country Director, who is currently in Sylhet overseeing the response. 

He said, “Through anticipatory action, families can prepare in advance -- whether that means securing food, protecting assets, or moving to safer places.”

Bangladesh is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, ranking ninth globally in the World Risk Index 2024. WFP has been implementing anticipatory action in the country since 2017 with support from partners including the European Union, Germany, Ireland and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

Citing recent studies, WFP said that every US$1 invested in anticipatory action can generate up to $7 in avoided losses and additional benefits. Source: daily Sun

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