The Effects of the July 2004 Floods

Bangladesh

Some Background Info One of the world’s most densely populated countries – 125 million inhabitants. Most of Bangladesh is floodplain – 80% is at or below 10m in height. The Himalayan Mts are located to the north. Almost all of Bangladesh’s rivers have their source outside the country. The Ganges, the Bramahputra and the Meghna Rivers all run through Bangladesh. One of the poorest countries – GNP = $200 per head.

Pictures of the terrible effects…

600 reported deaths – rose to 750+ 30 million homeless

People have to leave their homes in boats!!!!

Or live on roof tops with snakes!!

Airports, roads & railways flooded DHAKA Bridges destroyed $7 billion damage

Land polluted with sewage Uprooted trees

Disease remained a big problem afterwards due to contaminated water 100,000 people in Dhaka suffered from diarrhoea as floodwaters left mud and sewage. Disease remained a big problem afterwards due to contaminated water

Everyday life disrupted

Rice crop destroyed along with food supplies – vegetables, cash crops e.g. jute & sugar 2 million tonnes of rice washed away

Animals killed Habitats destroyed Mangroves destroyed

Many farmers & factory workers became unemployed Children lost out on education – around 4000 schools were affected by the floods