Faruk-E-Azam, adviser to the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, stated that Bangladesh’s geographical location makes it one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries.
He remarked that a lack of awareness and knowledge frequently leads Bangladesh to face human-induced disasters.
Speaking at a workshop titled "Urban Disaster Management: Challenges and Solutions" on Tuesday (5 November), at the Multipurpose Hall of BIAM Foundation in Dhaka, Faruk-E-Azam highlighted these issues.
The event was organised by the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief.
He elaborated that, beyond natural or human-made disasters, poverty is an equally pressing concern.
Approximately 50-80% of the population in 75 sub-districts live below the poverty line, he noted, warning that poverty-induced malnutrition would create a vulnerable and weakened society.
Emphasising his commitment to addressing poverty as a disaster, he added that steps are being taken in this regard.
The adviser further stressed the necessity of a robust early warning system, improved building codes, and enhanced urban planning to safeguard lives. “Raising awareness is vital for reducing risks, yet it is an arduous task,” he remarked.
“Awareness must begin within each home and evolve into a daily practice. In addition, volunteers need to be fostered on a broad scale, without sole dependence on the government.”
He also advocated for adopting the expertise of earthquake management from other nations to create a customised and effective model for Bangladesh.
“Preparedness through training is crucial,” he added, emphasising the importance of readiness for seismic events.
The adviser called for increasing the capacity of all agencies by fostering the use of innovative and technological solutions, underscoring the need for extensive research.
"I hope that the younger generation will play a leading role in these areas,” he said.
The workshop, chaired by Md Kamrul Hasan, Secretary of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, featured a keynote presentation by Dr Mehedi Ahmed Ansari, Professor of Civil Engineering at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology. Also in attendance were Rezwanur Rahman, Director-General of the Department of Disaster Management, and Md Ahmedul Haque, Joint Secretary, along with 70 representatives from various universities, organisations, and institutions.
