It is encouraging to note that during the board meeting of Global Center on Adaptation held in Paris on Thursday, global leaders praised Bangladesh for its commitment and measures to fight the adverse impacts of climate change. Bangladesh is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change and thereby, it is also one of the most disaster prone countries in the world. Despite increasing disasters with greater intensity, by working together, its citizens, government, civil society, scientists, national and international NGOs and business communities have made significant progress over the years. Although the situation seems quite grim, Bangladesh is not giving up. In fact, the country is often considered a climate-change adaptation champion. Bangladesh is one of the nations that emits very little carbon, but it is likely to be among those that suffer most because of global warming. However, the country is not waiting to be rescued by others. It has taken several initiatives to facilitate climate-resilient development.
But what is worrying is that because of the climate change impact, the country’s growth rate may lose its momentum in the coming days. This will hinder its development gains unless proper mitigation and effective prevention measures are undertaken immediately.
Preparedness for disasters along with effective
prevention and mitigation measures are
imperative for sustainable development of the country
Every year in Bangladesh, thousands of lives get affected by the consequences of such as cyclones, norwesters, floods, landslides and many more. Acres of cultivated lands and other properties get destroyed. In such life-threatening situations, our preparedness and collective surviving skills can save lives. In recent times, we have gained experience from neighbouring countries during natural calamities, but there are unpredictable natural disasters like earthquakes which should be given serious consideration by the authorities concerned.
Over the years, Bangladesh has earned a good reputation as well as international recognition for efficient management of disasters. It has become a role model for others in managing disaster situations of varied nature. Nevertheless, the disaster management system of the country needs further development. It requires more focused initiatives for increasing the capacity of the authorities concerned including both public and private agencies.
Our country is currently lacking resources to stand against natural disasters but with proper implementation of new technologies, we can save lives and reduce the adverse impact of climate change. Moreover, higher number of education and training programmes in disaster prone areas should be carried out in order to develop professionalism in disaster management system. Therefore, preparedness for disasters along with effective prevention and mitigation measures are imperative for sustainable development of the country.
