Dramatic Dive: Rohingya Refugees Face Perilous Waters
When the grim tale unfolded on Sunday (August 15), more than twenty Rohingya refugees vanished into the waters of the Bay of Bengal after their boat, attempting to escape a remote Bangladeshi island, capsized. The United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, expressed deep sorrow, noting that many passengers—especially women and children—tragically drowned, though the exact number remains unknown.
Why the Refugees Are Headed for Bhasan Char
- Bhasan Char, a land that surfaced just twenty years ago, houses roughly 20,000 Rohingya. However, this new “island” is prone to flooding and lacks proper infrastructure.
- On the island, the living conditions are harsh: no job opportunities, limited mobility, and families are cut off from their relatives in Cox’s Bazar camps.
- Senior Rohingya, Mr. Abdul Hamid, 40, explained on the phone to Reuters, “Living here is tough. There’s no work. People can’t visit relatives in Cox’s Bazar, so folks light a fire and take risks to leave.”
Stormy Sea, Heart‑breaking Loss
- Authorities reported that approximately 40 Rohingya—again, many women and children—were aboard a fishing vessel that went down early Saturday due to bad weather.
- Police official Mr. Rafiqul Islam said that 14 people were rescued by fishermen and brought back to the island.
- Coast guard, navy, and air force detectives continue searching.
The Greater Picture: Overcrowding and Forced Relocation
Bangladesh aims to move 100,000 Rohingya to Bhasan Char to reduce chronic overcrowding in Cox’s Bazar, the world’s largest refugee camp with over a million people. The migration is advertised as “voluntary,” but many refugees report coercion and present living conditions that prompted protests in June during a UN visit.
Human Rights Voices Call for Action
- John Quinley of Fortify Rights said, “Dhaka should put an end to detention on Bhasan Char and grant freedom of movement for all people on the island.”
- He added, “The reports of Rohingya dying while trying to flee the island by boat are extremely alarming.”
- Quinley urged the government to arrange safe and free transportation for those wishing to return to Cox’s Bazar.
Alarming Escapes and a Sinking Promise
Police note that dozens of Rohingya have fled the island due to restricted movement and lack of livelihood options. The ocean has become a nightmare because of an island that promises refuge yet falls short of safety.
If you’re concerned about the plight of these refugees, consider supporting organizations that advocate for humane relocation policies and life‑saving measures.
