THE north-eastern region of Bangladesh is currently reeling under the relentless onslaught of a torrential flood, plunging communities into profound suffering and uncertainty. As the floodwaters inundate villages and disrupt lives, fears loom large that these catastrophic events may only intensify in the years to come, echoing the devastating scenes witnessed in 2022.
Sylhet-Sunamganj-Netrokona, situated at the foothills of the world鈥檚 highest rainfall region, stands as a unique flood-prone lowland. Monsoonal torrents surge across the border, pouring through more than 70 channels and inflicting severe devastation in the region. In recognition of the ferocity of these floods, local communities have begun to adapt, seeking refuge in makeshift shelters like schools. However, traditional defences like cyclone centres, as seen on the coastal belt, are absent here, emphasising the need for innovative approaches to disaster management.
Bangladesh faces a dual challenge: protecting its own territories and dealing with upstream environmental degradation exacerbated by unchecked activities in Meghalaya and Assam. Rampant deforestation and mining activities have stripped the hillsides, leading to increased soil erosion, which brings an increased amount of sediment downstream. This environmental recklessness has turned rivers murky and unpredictable, amplifying flood risks in downstream areas of Bangladesh.
The repercussions of these floods are not limited to Bangladesh alone. Residents in Assam and Meghalaya also endure substantial losses and seek urgent evacuation measures during these calamitous events. Guwahati, Assam鈥檚 capital, mirrors Sylhet鈥檚 plight, with newer suburbs like Anilnagar-Chandmari bearing the brunt of rising waters. Calls for diversion measures highlight the desperate need for proactive flood management strategies that transcend borders.
Experts ponder alternatives to mitigate these immense floods, yet the reality remains stark: Bangladesh must bolster its disaster prevention capabilities independently. The ongoing deluge threatens vast areas like Kurigram and Lalmonirhat, prompting a critical reassessment of national disaster preparedness. Bangladesh鈥檚 resilience in the face of such adversities underscores the imperative for cohesive national coordination and community engagement in disaster response.
In the north-east鈥檚 haor region, where floodwaters are seen not merely as rising tides but as a formidable force of nature, communities pool resources annually to fortify their defences. This grassroots approach signifies a shift towards sustainable disaster resilience, rooted in local knowledge and self-sufficiency.
Looking ahead, Bangladesh must harness its resilience and strategic acumen to navigate these turbulent waters. By prioritising cooperative-based disaster management, regional collaboration and sustainable practices, Bangladesh can forge a path towards long-term flood resilience and environmental stewardship. The nation鈥檚 ability to transform adversity into opportunity stands as a testament to its enduring spirit and commitment to safeguarding its people against future disasters.
An important juncture arrives when the torrential floodwaters subside and communities embark on the arduous task of rebuilding. It is this point that demands innovative actions and a steadfast commitment to forging a sustainable future so that these devastations are not repeated every year.
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Magfi Reza Siddique is director of Daahuk.