Dhaka: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan announced that the EnRICH Project will bolster flood forecasting and early warning systems in Sylhet, Sunamganj, Cumilla, and Feni from September 2025 to March 2026. She made this statement while speaking at a national event titled ‘UK-Bangladesh Collaboration on Ecology-Based Adaptation and Hydro-Met Services’ held at Pani Bhaban.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizwana Hasan lauded the UK Met Office’s collaboration with RIMES, BWDB, and BMD, noting that this initiative will improve the ability to interpret rainfall and hydrological data accurately. She emphasized the need for enhanced coordination between the government and development partners to ensure the sustainability of NGO-led projects.
Rizwana highlighted the vital role of protecting Haor ecosystems, indicating that a collapse could severely impact food supply. She pointed out that while the National Haor Master Plan is complete, the Haor Development Board requires an approved administrative structure to function effectively. The government has drafted the Haor and Wetland Ordinance, and a protection order under the Water Act for Hakaluki and Tanguar Haor is ready. Once enacted, these areas will be maintained as climate- and agriculture-friendly ecosystems.
She stressed the interconnectedness of Haor with food systems and the necessity of safeguarding this ecosystem for national welfare. Rizwana also addressed the deprivation of essential services in Haor communities and proposed a boat-based hospital model to provide healthcare during floods and dry seasons. This initiative could receive approval under the Climate Change Trust Fund.
The event attracted over 150 participants from various sectors, demonstrating a collective dedication to enhancing climate resilience in Bangladesh. Speakers included Deputy Country Director – Programme, CARE Bangladesh, Emebet Menna, Deputy High Commissioner and Development Director, British High Commission, Dhaka, James Goldman, and other esteemed figures.
In addition, the event highlighted the accomplishments of the UK-funded NABAPALLAB Project in the Sundarbans Ecologically Critical Area and announced its extension to Hakaluki Haor, a significant wetland in South Asia. A panel discussion with experts from ADB, CNRS, RSF, and the Bangladesh Forest Department focused on the integration of Nature-Based Solutions and Locally Led Adaptation into national climate strategies.