Dhaka: UNICEF has expressed deep concern over a deadly landslide in the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar that claimed the lives of at least four girls, warning that the ongoing monsoon season continues to pose serious risks to children and families living in the camps.
In a statement issued on Thursday (July 9), the UN children’s agency said the landslide occurred on Wednesday in Camp 5. While at least four girls were confirmed dead, the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.
“UNICEF mourns the reported loss of at least four girls’ lives. Our thoughts are with the children, their families, and everyone affected by this tragic incident,” the statement said.
The agency noted that the tragedy came just one day after flash floods and landslides killed nine people, including children, in the Rohingya camps on July 7.
UNICEF said the back-to-back disasters underscore the severe dangers posed by the monsoon season to refugees living in highly vulnerable conditions.
It warned that persistent heavy rainfall continues to increase the risk of flooding and landslides throughout the camps, threatening lives and disrupting access to essential services.
The organisation said it and its humanitarian partners have been closely monitoring the situation since the emergency began and are coordinating with the Government of Bangladesh and other relief agencies to support ongoing response efforts.
UNICEF also reaffirmed its readiness to provide life-saving assistance and protection to affected children and families as needs are identified.
Reiterating its commitment to the Rohingya response, the agency said it will continue working with the Government of Bangladesh and humanitarian partners to help keep children safe throughout the monsoon season while ensuring continued access to essential services, including healthcare, safe drinking water, child protection, psychosocial support and education wherever possible.
