Dhaka: Disaster Management and Relief Adviser Faruk E Azam, Bir Protik, emphasized the significance of mitigation over response in disaster management during his address as the chief guest at the 3rd National Dialogue Platform on Anticipatory Action at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center in Agargaon this morning.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the adviser highlighted Bangladesh's historical vulnerability to natural disasters, referencing the catastrophic Bhola Cyclone of November 13, 1970. This calamity, which resulted in nearly half a million deaths, is etched in the nation's memory as one of the deadliest in history. The aftermath of the cyclone left the people of then East Pakistan feeling severely deprived, which, according to Azam, contributed to the country's pursuit of independence just a year later.
Bangladesh has faced numerous natural disasters since its independence, including floods and cyclones, which have claimed lives, destroyed property, hindered development, and complicated poverty eradication efforts. The adviser noted that the current climate reality indicates a rise in disaster risks, with more frequent and intense occurrences of floods, landslides, lightning strikes, droughts, heatwaves, and cold spells threatening both the economy and daily life.
Azam stated that since 2015, disaster mitigation has become more critical than response. He elaborated on anticipatory action as a proactive approach that involves acting on forecasts before a crisis occurs. This shift in mindset, he said, has revolutionized the country's disaster management strategies.
The adviser pointed to visible progress, citing the Early Warning for All initiative, which aims to provide accurate and timely disaster warnings to even the most remote parts of the country. He stressed the importance of leveraging technological advancements for the collective good, calling it a moral obligation.
Emphasizing the role of volunteers in disaster preparedness, Azam mentioned the Cyclone Preparedness Programme (CPP), suggesting that with proper training, volunteers can achieve remarkable feats. He envisioned the creation of a national volunteer force ready to respond to any crisis.
The event was attended by notable figures such as United Nations Resident Coordinator Gwyn Lewis, World Food Programme Country Director Jessie Wood, Chairman of Bangladesh Red Crescent Society Major General Professor Dr. Md. Azizul Islam (retd), Director General of the Department of Disaster Management Rezwanur Rahman, and senior officials from the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief.