Natural disasters have been a part of our lives for millennia. The world has experienced numerous natural calamities over the years and with climate change across the globe, the natural disasters seem to be getting severer.
Disasters are currently hitting Bangladesh at a higher number than in the past. However, Bangladesh’s achievement in reducing damages caused by disasters is laudable, to say the least. Bangladesh is particularly vulnerable to tropical cyclones. However, a dense network of small cyclone shelters, early warning systems, evacuation plans, reforestation schemes and increased communication have contributed to reducing cyclone-related mortality. Over the years, the country 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. Despite its limited capabilities, the country has taken many initiatives to address climate change and spent a lot of money from its own funds. However, still we need to do a lot more to take our disaster preparedness to a higher level.
With proper implementation of new
technologies, we can save lives and
reduce the negative impact of disasters
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. As the nature of disasters is changing, we need to find innovative solutions to effectively tackle calamities. It is not always possible to predict a disaster but if we take adequate preparation we can certainly minimise loss and damage caused by a disaster.
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 negative impact of disasters. Moreover, a higher number of education and training programmes in disaster-prone areas should be carried out in order to develop professionalism in disaster management system.
It is time to develop our disaster management capacity to cope with the changing nature of disasters. Also, we need to invest more in creating awareness among general people about disaster preparedness. We should effectively utilise local knowledge about disaster management and disseminate it to a wider audience. As disaster management is a holistic process, we all must put forth our concerned efforts to tackle catastrophes.
