Germ-Laden Water Puts Lives at Risk in Nayapara Registered Refugee Camp
- Rohingya Cultural Advocacy Centre
- Dec 18, 2025
- 2 min read
Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh,Refugees living in the Nayapara Mochni Registered Refugee Camp are facing a severe public health crisis as unsafe, germ-contaminated water continues to be distributed for daily use, leading to the spread of serious diseases across the camp.
Despite international donor countries providing funds specifically for clean and safe drinking water for refugees, families in Nayapara Registered Camp report that the water they receive remains unsafe and contaminated. Refugees question how donor funds meant for clean water are being utilized, as the reality on the ground does not reflect the purpose of this international assistance.
Many families are forced to drink and use water containing harmful bacteria and pathogens. As a result, cases of diarrhea, cholera, typhoid, skin diseases, and other waterborne illnesses are increasing rapidly. Children, elderly people, and pregnant women are the most vulnerable and are suffering the most.
The Nayapara Registered Camp is divided into seven blocks, with a large pond located at the center of the camp. This pond collects rainwater, especially during the monsoon season. Because the water remains stagnant and is not properly treated or filtered, it becomes heavily contaminated with bacteria. Refugees report that water from this pond is distributed to the blocks for daily use, including drinking and cooking.
It is widely acknowledged within the camp that the water being distributed contains germs, yet refugees have no alternative sources. The pond and water distribution system were established and are managed by the RRRC (Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner) and UNHCR, along with their partner organizations. Refugees say they are unable to raise objections or speak openly against the system, as water distribution and essential services are fully controlled by these authorities. Many fear retaliation, neglect, or loss of services if they complain.
This situation raises serious concerns about accountability and transparency, especially considering that international donors continue to fund water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs for refugees. Refugees are asking why, despite ongoing funding, they are still forced to consume unsafe water that endangers their health and lives.
Refugees and advocates stress that this is not a request for sympathy. It is a demand for action and responsibility. They call for:
Immediate access to safe, clean, and treated drinking water.Independent monitoring of water quality and donor-funded projects
Proper healthcare services to address waterborne diseases.Sustainable and transparent water solutions that ensure long-term safety.
Access to clean water is a basic human right, essential for life, health, and human dignity. For refugees who have already endured displacement and suffering, being forced to rely on germ-laden water is unacceptable.
The international community must be informed. Donor countries, humanitarian agencies, and responsible authorities must urgently investigate and address this crisis to ensure that funds meant for clean water truly reach the refugees they are intended to serve.
The lives of thousands depend on immediate and meaningful action.
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