World Vision Bangladesh staff have rushed to the city of Chittagong after mudslides earlier this week left at least 123 residents dead.

The mudslides were triggered by the heaviest rainfall in the region in a quarter of a century. A tide of mud and water swept through the city homes, giving no chance of escape in the early hours of 11 June.

Whole families were buried under mud and debris while they slept, as the powerful current simply washed others away.

World Vision has now engaged 20 volunteers in a rescue programme, identifying loss and damage and surveying the situation of a number of the families affected in Dampara. All ADP (Area Development Programme) staff including the Disaster Management Officers (DMO), were engaged in providing immediate support to families affected by the landslides.

At least 123 people were killed and hundreds more injured and missing as torrential rains sparked a series of devastating landslides in the port city of Chittagong, plunging the country's second largest city into chaos.

Five children and two women of five families in the working area of World Vision's Hong Kong funded Chittagong ADP were reported to be killed in the disaster. This included an Area Development Community Group member, while seven others were also said to be seriously injured. A total of 11 houses were completely damaged and 15 families were affected.

People living near hills in and around the city were evacuated due to fears of further mudslides.

Chittagong ADP Manager Prodip Costa said, "Government officials are holding meetings to decide on the immediate course of action and needs in the affected areas. If the regional government allows, local NGOs including World Vision's Chittagong ADP will take the lead in providing a relief programme in the area."

The economic disruption was extensive with the country's largest port closed and the city's industries brought to a standstill. Shop owners, businesses and householders could do little to protect their property and possessions from the torrent of muddy water.

Kalurghat Radio Station was forced to suspend its broadcasts after its headquarters were submerged.