Insights

24 million affected by severe flooding in South Asia

Almost 1000 people have been killed and up to 24 million affected in severe flooding in the past two weeks in India, Nepal and Bangladesh. The recent floods are some of the worst to have hit South Asia in decades, with the Red Cross commenting that millions are running out of food and clean water, with the situation going from bad to worse. Hundreds of villages are now only accessible by boat, with roads having been completely submerged. Almost one third of Nepal and Bangladesh is now flooded, leaving residents vulnerable to water-borne diseases such as diarrhoea, malaria, dengue fever and encephalitis.

Those operating or residing in South Asia are advised to be aware of the serious floods affecting the India, Nepal and Bangladesh. Residents or travellers are therefore warned to prepare for possible further flooding in the near term. Rearrange any travel routes to avoid the worst affected areas. Monitor local media for more information regarding the flooding. Follow all directives issued by the authorities and maintain a flexible itinerary until the floods pass. Be aware of the heightened chance of transmitting a water-borne disease.