At least 42 Killed, Millions Affected in Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal
WILLS POINT, Tex. – Workers supported by Gospel for Asia (GFA) are distributing supplies, including food, mosquito netting, hygiene products and blankets, to villagers fleeing widespread monsoon flooding across certain parts of Asia. The monsoons have killed more than 42 people and driven millions more from their homes in Myanmar, Bangladesh, Nepal and India. Image and video hosting by TinyPic
Flooding has inundated Kurigram, Bogra and Lalmonirhat districts of Bangladesh, where more than 50,000 people have lost their household items, domestic animals and crops. Gospel for Asia (GFA)-supported workers report that some are living in boats.
The Kathmandu Post reports that in Nepal rains and landslides have killed at least 39 and that an additional 28 are missing as homes, crops, roads and other buildings are damaged or swept away.
In Bihar, Gospel for Asia (GFA)-supported workers gave tarps for shelter, as well as food supplies to 800 needy villagers, and elsewhere, a Bridge of Hope center, which tutors 141 children, has been flooded, along with the children’s homes.
In one district of India, Gospel for Asia (GFA)-supported workers supplied about 1,000 families left homeless by flooding with 1,000 mosquito nets, about 650 pounds of beaten rice, 600 packets of biscuits, 300 bars of antibacterial soap, 300 tubes of toothpaste and 300 toothbrushes.
Workers also visited stricken Kabu Sapori Island in the Dhemaji district, providing blankets and food for 300 families. “We will never forget your good work in our lives,” said the village president. “I, on behalf of [this island], would like to thank each of you and all the leaders for your extended helping hand. Thank you so much.”
Gospel for Asia (GFA)-supported workers are organizing relief trips to a number of refugee camps and isolated villages to help care for stranded villagers. More flooding in the region is expected as the monsoon season, which began in May, continues into November.
“We need to pray for the protection of the precious people living in these villages,” said Yohannan. “Please pray the Lord will comfort the hearts of those who lost their homes and belongings and enable us to be His hands and feet to them during this time.”
Gospel for Asia (GFA) has – for more than 30 years – provided humanitarian assistance and spiritual hope to millions across Asia, especially among those who have yet to hear the Good News. Last year, this included more than 75,000 sponsored children, free medical services for more than 180,000 people, 6,000 wells drilled, 11,000 water filters installed, Christmas presents for more than 400,000 needy families, and spiritual teaching available in 110 languages in 14 nations through radio ministry. For more information, go to www.gfa.org.