Climate risk affects 97% of families in Koyra; South Bedkashi most vulnerable: Study

Climate risks have affected 97% of families in Koyra upazila of Khulna, with South Bedkashi identified as the most vulnerable area, according to a research report presented at a media dialogue in Khulna today (8 April).

According to the report, frequent cyclones, storm surges and rising salinity have placed nearly the entire community at risk, while weak infrastructure, gender inequality and economic uncertainty have further intensified vulnerability.

The findings were presented at a media dialogue held at the CSS Ava Centre in Khulna, organised under a preparedness project implemented by Jagrata Juba Shangha (JJS), with support from Shapla Neer Japan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

Photo: TBS

Researchers from Khulna University conducted the study in three unions – North Bedkashi, South Bedkashi and Koyra Sadar – surveying 383 households.

The assessment also included 12 focus group discussions and 12 key informant interviews, using 60 indicators to develop community and union-level vulnerability indices.

The study found that salinity (84.9%) and cyclones (74.7%) are the most significant threats to local communities, with risks peaking in May and November.

The findings show that 95% of residents live in weak structures, while 60.3% of homes lack elevated plinths, increasing flood risk.

Road communication is disrupted in 82.8% of cases after disasters, delaying emergency response.

Gender-based vulnerability remains a major concern. Around 89.3% of respondents said cyclone shelters lack safe and separate sanitation facilities for women, discouraging many from seeking shelter.

The report also found that 25% of families fall into food insecurity within a week of a disaster, while 75% become dependent on loans, often at high interest rates, after losing livelihoods.

It further found that 75.7% of people are unaware of union disaster management committees, indicating significant institutional gaps.

Based on the vulnerability index, South Bedkashi scored 47.24, making it the most at-risk area, while Koyra Sadar (38.74) was relatively less vulnerable.

Professor Dr Zakir Hossain, who led the research, stressed the need for both immediate support and long-term planning.

He recommended climate-resilient infrastructure, mangrove afforestation, freshwater supply, gender-sensitive shelters and community-based economic initiatives.

He also called for activating local disaster management committees, holding regular community engagement meetings and increasing ward-level training.

Without integrated and gender-sensitive planning, climate risks in Koyra could turn into a prolonged crisis, he warned.