United Nations launches new projects for host communities in Cox’s Bazar 

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees on Wednesday inaugurated several projects to provide support to the host communities in Cox's Bazar, who have been affected by the influx of Rohingya refugees.

One of the programmes involves constructing new school buildings and toilets for Kanjar Para High School, Whykong and Naikkongkhali Junior High School in Hnila of Teknaf. 

Under another pilot initiative, 21 vulnerable local families, living next to the refugee settlements of Nayapara and Jadimura in Teknaf, will receive a transitional housing unit. 

The portable steel framed housing unit is constructed on a cement-concrete floor and is more durable than a temporary bamboo and tarp shelter.

The refugee agency started to distribute Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders and cooking stoves earlier this year. They target to provide 20,000 host community households with access to LPG.  

The provision of LPG is an important tool in helping to reduce deforestation, as well as to improve the health of families. 

"The host population in Bangladesh has shown incredible solidarity and generosity in welcoming and hosting the Rohingya. But we recognise that the large number of refugees are also placing a strain on natural resources, the environment and infrastructure" said Marin Kajdomcaj, head of operations for the United Nations refugee agency in Cox's Bazar. 

"By providing support through various projects, we are also helping some of the most vulnerable Bangladeshi families. Our assistance is designed to help support some of the poorest local households and to ensure peaceful coexistence between all communities" he added. 

Deputy Commissioner of Cox's Bazar Md Kamal Hossain accompanied the refugee agency officials during the inauguration of the projects.