Devastation has been the aftermath of Cyclone Remal. Eleven5,000 homes have been partially damaged and an estimated 35,000 homes have been completely destroyed along the coastal area.
Both short-term and long-term livelihoods have been impacted by the loss of croplands, cattle, and fisheries. BRAC’s first estimations point to a Tk 15 billion long-term economic damage.
BRAC has made a Tk 70 million contribution to the emergency assistance fund named “Dakche Amar Desh” (Bangladesh is calling), of which Tk 30 million came from its own money and 40 million from the one-day salary of BRAC staff.
BRAC Bank has also made a Tk 30 million donation. This fund will be used to reconstruct homes, water supplies, and latrines, as well as to restore livelihoods and provide emergency financial support so that disadvantaged households may purchase necessary food packages.
“Cyclone Remal has left millions of families in unbearable distress, damaging their homes, land, and sources of livelihood,” stated Asif Saleh, executive director of BRAC. On the ground, helping families in need are our frontline coworkers, community health workers, and volunteers. The neighborhood requires long-term rehabilitation and rebuilding support in addition to emergency relief assistance.
“In order to begin the work right away, we are mobilizing our own funds. But the demand is considerably bigger and calls for concerted, ongoing efforts. We implore everyone to come forward and support us, especially kindhearted people, business partners, and donor organizations,” he continued.
Contributions may also be made by using the ‘Make Payment’ option and the bkash payment number 01730321765.
Additionally, contributions may be sent to the BRAC Bank account 150120-2316474001, Gulshan 1, Gulshan Avenue, Dhaka, by anybody.
The website offers other ways to make payments.
According to BRAC, a family of four can obtain basic food supplies for two weeks for Tk 2,000 (USD 17), but a family rebuilding their home would need Tk 60,000 (USD 588).
The managing director and CEO of BRAC Bank, Selim R. F. Hussain, stated, “We are dedicated to helping our communities in times of need.” The fact that BRAC Bank is supporting BRAC’s relief operations in the areas devastated by Cyclone Remal demonstrates our commitment to social responsibility. We firmly think that working together can lead to positive change, and in partnership with BRAC, we hope to have a major impact on the lives of individuals impacted by this tragedy.
BRAC has been actively monitoring the effects of Cyclone Remal and cooperating at both national and local levels with pertinent government agencies, humanitarian groups, and partners.
Priority is being given to women-headed households, the elderly, expectant mothers, and those with physical and mental disabilities in the relief effort, particularly in places that are difficult to access.
A total of 23,000 BRAC employees, including volunteers and community health professionals, are providing emergency food and shelter to vulnerable communities throughout the devastated regions.
Furthermore, 1,600 residents of coastal areas have so far benefited from emergency food assistance provided by local government organizations.
