‘Bangladesh a recognised role model in disaster management’ 

Dr Enamur Rahman, state minister for Disaster Management and Relief on Saturday said Bangladesh has been recognised by the world as a role model in disaster management.

"As a member state of the United Nations, disaster management programs are being successfully implemented, which have since become a role model for other countries," he said.

The state minister made the remarks as the chief guest at a round table discussion on actions and measures to be taken in the context of disasters in rural areas, according to a press release.

The discussion was jointly organised by the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, and Friendship, a development partner. It took place at the Daily Jugantor auditorium in the capital, ahead of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction on 13 October.

Among others, AB Tajul Islam, chairman, Parliamentary Standing Committee on Disaster Management and Relief; Mohammad Mohsin, secretary, Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief; Mohammad Atiqul Haque, director general, Disaster Management; and Runa Khan, founder and executive director, Friendship were also present as special guests.

Also, Mahbuba Nasrin, director of the Institute of Disaster Management and Vulnerable Studies; Ahmadul Haque, director, Cyclone Preparedness Program (CPP); and Kazi Amdadul Hoque, senior director of Strategic Planning and Head of Climate Action, Friendship discussed the impact of disasters in the marginalised areas of the country and appropriate mitigation strategies.          

They said the people of the rural areas have adopted different strategies to adapt to the disasters. Therefore, despite Bangladesh being one of the most densely populated countries in the world, it has been possible to reduce the damage caused. As such, it most certainly plays a positive role in the country's economy by drastically reducing loss of life, livelihoods, resources and infrastructure.

As a member country of the United Nations, Bangladesh has been observing the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction every year. The theme for this year is 'Good Governance in Disaster Risk Reduction, Ensuring Sustainable Development'.