By Beyza Binnur Donmez
GENEVA (AA) — The UN refugee agency on Friday said it rushed humanitarian relief items to help millions affected by recent flash floods in Bangladesh.
"We have transported medicine and medical supplies to health clinics in the worst affected districts of Feni and Comilla through our local partner, while working closely with the Cox's Bazar District Commissioner's office," UNHCR spokesperson William Spindler told a UN briefing in Geneva.
Spindler's remarks came after Bangladesh sought international aid to battle the floods that have devastated eastern and southeastern regions since Aug. 21, killing at least 71 people and affecting over 5 million others across 11 districts — including Cox's Bazar, where nearly a million Rohingya refugees live.
He said that supplies include 350,000 water purification tablets, 20,000 jerry cans, 15,000 hygiene kits, and 10,000 emergency shelters, among other items to help local authorities fight the spread of waterborne diseases and ensure the availability of clean drinking water.
"UNHCR is providing core relief items and other humanitarian support to help address the most immediate needs of the local communities in the region, including shelter and health," he added.
Spindler said the agency is also "working around the clock" to support the Rohingya refugee camps in the area.