1,778 Rohingyas Relocated to Bhashan Char
The recent relocation of Rohingya refugees to Bhashan Char Island marks a significant move by the Bangladesh government as part of their ongoing efforts to address the humanitarian crisis. Approximately 1,778 more Rohingyas have been transferred from the Cox’s Bazar camps in the third phase of this initiative.
What Should I know for My UPSC Exams?
Government Relocation Plan
Under the government’s relocation scheme, a total of 1,440 buildings are being constructed to house 100,000 Rohingya refugees from the overcrowded camps in Cox’s Bazar to Bhashan Char Island. This extensive project includes the development of 120 cyclone shelters to ensure the safety of the inhabitants against frequent natural disasters. The proposal for this relocation was first introduced in June 2015 but faced substantial resistance from international organizations, including the United Nations Refugee Agency and Human Rights Watch, which criticized the plan as potentially disastrous.
Despite the pushback, the Bangladesh government proceeded with the plan, initiating the relocation process in December 2020. Prior to this latest move, approximately 4,000 Rohingya had already been settled on Bhashan Char Island.
Background of the Relocation Effort
The Ashrayan Project, which aims to build 100,000 homes for displaced Rohingyas, was expanded by the Bangladesh government despite facing opposition from various human rights groups and international bodies. The project is seen as a solution to alleviate the overcrowding and improve living conditions for the refugees. The first two phases of the relocation saw around 4,000 Rohingyas moving to the new site, and with the third phase, the number continues to rise.
About Bhashan Char Island
Bhashan Char Island, also known as Char Piya, emerged as a result of sediment deposition from the Himalayas in 2006. Situated in the Bay of Bengal, it is part of Bangladesh’s Hatiya Upazila. The island lies approximately 6 kilometers away from Sandwip Island and 60 kilometers from the mainland, covering an area of 40 square kilometers.
This newly formed island has been developed to accommodate the relocated Rohingya population, offering them a more permanent and secure living environment compared to the makeshift camps in Cox’s Bazar. With the ongoing construction of housing and facilities, the Bangladesh government is working towards creating a sustainable community for the refugees on Bhashan Char Island.