Title: Urgent Appeal for International Action Against the Impact of Indian Dams on Bangladesh’s Flood Crisis in 2024

**Description**:

I, Farhana Akhter, and the undersigned, urgently call upon the international community to address a critical issue impacting millions of lives in Bangladesh. The severe flooding in Bangladesh in 2024 has been exacerbated by the impact of Indian dams, including the Farakka Dam and the Teesta Barrage, which have significantly altered river flows and contributed to the current disaster.

**Background**:
1. **Farakka Dam**: Constructed in 1975 on the Ganges River, this dam has obstructed the natural flow of the river, leading to increased water levels in Bangladesh’s rivers. This disruption has intensified the flooding crisis, causing extensive damage to homes, agriculture, and infrastructure in Bangladesh.

2. **Teesta Barrage**: The Teesta Barrage, built on the Teesta River, has altered the natural water flow in Bangladesh’s northern rivers. Mismanagement and altered water flow have exacerbated flooding, leading to severe impacts on local communities and their livelihoods.

**2024 Flood Crisis**:
In 2024, the flooding crisis has reached catastrophic proportions due to the excessive release of water from these dams. The impact has been devastating:
- **Loss of Life**: Numerous lives have been lost, with entire communities affected.
- **Destruction of Homes**: Thousands of homes have been submerged, leaving many families homeless.
- **Damage to Agriculture**: Agricultural lands have been inundated, leading to severe crop losses.
- **Livestock Loss**: Many livestock have perished, further compounding the crisis.
- **Food Shortages**: The destruction of crops and infrastructure has led to a significant food crisis, threatening the livelihoods and well-being of countless individuals.

The scale of this disaster has had a profound effect on the economic stability and food security of the affected regions, leaving communities in urgent need of assistance.

**Impact**:
The ongoing floods have caused unprecedented damage, including the death of many people, the submergence of homes, the destruction of agricultural lands, and the loss of livestock. The economic stability and food security of affected regions have been severely compromised, creating a dire humanitarian situation.

**Call to Action**:
We urge the international community to:
1. **Facilitate Dialogue**: Encourage India and Bangladesh to engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve the issues related to dam operations and water management.
2. **Implement Sustainable Solutions**: Support the development of fair and sustainable solutions that address both countries' needs and mitigate the impact on vulnerable communities.
3. **Monitor and Report**: Establish mechanisms for monitoring the impact of dams on river flow and flooding, ensuring transparency and accountability in water management practices.

Your support is crucial in addressing this humanitarian crisis and promoting international cooperation to find a lasting solution.

**Signatures**: Farhana Akter