Online Desk  :   Qatar Charity (QC) has provided cooking gas cylinders to as many as 22,800 Rohingya refugees sheltering on Bhasanchar Island in Bangladesh – to reduce the refugees’ reliance on local firewood and thereby deforestation. This initiative benefits approximately 22,800 individuals, enhancing their living conditions and ensuring access to a safe and reliable cooking fuel source. This project aims to improve the quality of life for Rohingya refugees by facilitating safe cooking practices. Many refugees previously relied on firewood, which posed safety risks and was difficult to gather. By supplying cooking gas cylinders, Qatar Charity seeks to address these challenges, promote health and safety, and foster a sense of normalcy within the community. Samiya, a refugee mother of three, expressed her gratitude for the cooking gas cylinder initiative. “Before receiving this assistance, cooking was a struggle. We had to collect firewood, which was not only dangerous but also time-consuming,” she said.

Samiya expressed regret over the deforestation and destruction of the island’s forests, acknowledging that they had no other choice to secure food. “Now, we don’t have to damage the forest anymore. I hope this project continues for as long as we remain here,” she remarked. Hossain Ahmed, 39, shared his perspective on the positive impact of cooking gas. “This assistance from Qatar Charity means a lot to us; it gives us hope and helps us feel more settled in our new environment,” he remarked.

Shabika Begum, an elderly refugee, said, “With the cooking gas, I feel much more secure and can prioritize my health and well-being. We no longer have to search for firewood in the forests; we can simply light the stove and cook with ease.” Government officials have recognised the importance of Qatar Charity’s support in improving the living conditions of refugees. Md Maksudur Rahman, assistant camp in charge of Bhasanchar Island, stated, “Qatar Charity’s provision of cooking gas cylinders is a crucial initiative that addresses urgent needs. It enhances safety and improves daily life for the refugee population.` QC is contributing to a better quality of life for these displaced individuals. Over the last 5 years, QC’s project benefitted more than 1.5 million refugees living in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasanchar Island.