Widespread flooding in eastern Bangladesh for more than a week has killed more than 50 people and destroyed the livelihoods of millions.

The Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief said on Thursday that the floods had killed 52 people and affected about 5.5 million people in 11 districts.

The floods were caused by incessant heavy rains combined with water flowing down from mountainous areas, causing local rivers to rise and cause widespread destruction.

Volunteers and government teams are working hard to reach remote villages and provide aid to those in need, although the water has begun to recede in some affected areas.