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Research CompendiumO R I G I N A L E D I T I O N N O . 1E D I T E D B Y I M O N C H O W D H O O R E E , P H D , M U H A M M A D F E R D A U S , S A D I A S A I M A , M A H I A F A R S U M I S L A M A N D F A R A H I S L A M A E S H A
Research Compendium 2005-2025 Edited by Imon Chowdhooree, PhD, Muhammad Ferdaus, Sadia Saima, Mahia Farsum Islam and Farah Islam Aesha
First published 2026 by Brac University Kha 224 Pragati Sarani, Merul Badda, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh © 2026 selection and editorial matter, Imon Chowdhooree, PhD, Muhammad Ferdaus, Sadia Saima, Mahia Farsum Islam and Farah Islam Aesha; individual chapters, the contributors © Department if Disaster Management and Environmental Studies, DMES All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reprinted or reproduced or utilised in any form or by any electronic, mechanical, or other means, now known or hereafter invented, including photocopying and recording, or in any information storage or retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publishers. Trademark notice : Product or corporate names may be trademarks or registered trademarks, and are used only for identifi cation and explanation without intent to infringe.
Research Compendium 2005-2025 Editorial Team Imon Chowdhooree, PhD Associate Professor, Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Studies (DMES), BRAC University Muhammad Ferdaus Senior Lecturer, Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Studies (DMES), BRAC University Sadia Saima Research Assistant, Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Studies (DMES), BRAC University Mahia Farsum Islam Teaching Assistant, Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Studies (DMES), BRAC University Farah Islam Aesha Teaching Assistant, Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Studies (DMES), BRAC University
CONTENTS Preface About the Department List of Master’s Dissertation. List of Faculty Members’ Selected Publications. List of Faculty Members’ Selected Research Works. Messages from Key Personal Photo Gallery 37 viii xi xii xix xx
Preface Research Compendium 2005–2025 has been published with the aim of showcasing the research initiatives undertaken by the students and faculty members of the Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Studies (DMES) at BRAC University. Under the banner of the Postgraduate Programs in Disaster Management (PPDM), the department has been offering its master’s program since 2005. As a requirement of the degree, every master’s student conducts independent research on relevant and contemporary issues. Over the years, the department has received numerous commendable research contributions from its students. In addition, our esteemed faculty members have been actively engaged in independent and funded research projects that reflect their excellence and significant contributions to the diverse fields of disaster management, climate change, and humanitarian response. The valuable outcomes of these research endeavors deserved to be compiled in a book format so that readers can easily access and appreciate the department’s research-intensive academic work. We are proud to present this compilation of abstracts from dissertations, publications, and reports produced over the last two decades. Alongside brief presentations of student and faculty research, this publication also includes concise overviews of the department’s academic programs and messages from key individuals associated with the programs. On behalf of the department, I hope this publication will reach a wider audience and further strengthen our collective pursuit of academic excellence and impactful research. I wish continued success in all our future endeavors. Imon Chowdhooree Head of the Editorial Board Research Compendium 2005-2025
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Studies (DMES) offers academic programs on developing resilient social and built environment and conserving and restoring natural environment with mitigation measures, adaptation opportunities, risk-reduction technological applications, and humanitarian standards, targeting all kinds of natural and human-induced hazards, environmental degradation, and threats. Vision To prepare tomorrow’s professionals and critical thinkers driven by the development ethos of a responsive, resilient, peaceful, adaptive, and inclusive built and social environment. Mission To create future professionals and leaders with multidisciplinary knowledge and skills aimed at cultivating comprehensive technological, socioeconomic, political, and global understanding to foster an environment that ensures sustainable development of all nations and ethnicities. To produce socially responsible and ethically enriched graduates to serve local and global communities in need. To provide supports for designing resilient social and built environment with mitigation measures, adaptation opportunities, risk-reduction technological applications, and humanitarian standards, targeting all kinds of natural and human-induced hazards, environmental degradation, and threats.
PPDM Postgraduate Programs in Disaster Management, PPDM: The PPDM was launched in 2005 as the first academic and research program within the structure of a university in Bangladesh. It was the first such program in the entire South Asian region. It offers post-graduate certificates, diploma, and master’s degree programs on Disaster Management issues in five specialized streams: 1.Disaster Risk Reduction 2.Social Safety and Community-based Adaptation 3.Human Security and Humanitarian Crisis Management 4.Climate Change Adaptation and Sustainable Development 5.Public Policy and Organizational Strategies PPDM offers a 1.Master in Disaster Management [ 36 credits ] 2.Diploma in Disaster Management [ 24 credits ] 3.Disaster Management Certificate Program [ 12 Credits ]
Bachelor of Disaster Management Program, BDM: This 141-credit bachelor's program provides the opportunity to become specialized in any field from three fields: 1.Humanitarian Response 2.Climate Change Study 3.Environmental Risk Reduction Technology Among 141 credits, general education covers 39 credits, program core theory and lab courses cover 27 credits, stream-specific theory and lab courses cover 51 credits, elective theory courses cover 12 credits, elective lab courses cover 3 credits, and rest of the 9 credits are covered by Internship, Capstone project or dissertation or study abroad. These 9 credits are also common for all. BDM
CARSHA Cell for Adaptation, Resilience, Security and Humanitarian Assistance (CARSHA): The cell Conduct independent and funded research on relevant issues- resilient built and social environment, climate change policy and adaptation, community vulnerability and resilience, security, emergency management, risk reductions, humanitarian assistance, etc. Establish liaisons and collaborations with national and international organizations Provide advocacy and consultancy services for reviewing and editing documents, preparing academic and training program materials, surveying, field study, data collection and analysis, document preparation, finding suitable personals, etc. Conduct training and certificate programs on relevant issues. Arrange events, like, workshops, conferences, seminars, exhibitions, campaign programs, round-table discussions, etc. Provide support through organizing voluntary and non-voluntary services during national and international emergency conditions. Conduct policy, planning, and design-oriented research in relevant areas Others
CERTIFICATE PROGRAM ON HUMANITARIAN CRISIS MANAGEMENT The program is collaboratively developed with BRAC. This course, valued at 6 credits, is designed for working professionals and students, with sessions scheduled on weekdays (Sunday to Thursday) after regular office hours and on weekends (Friday and Saturday) at convenient times. The program employs a diverse and engaging delivery approach, combining slide presentations, content delivery, field visits, interactive sessions, and guest lectures, with instruction available in both Bangla and English. It will be conducted primarily online, supplemented by select in-person sessions held in Cox’s Bazar, at Brac University Campus, or other designated locations. To ensure comprehensive learning, assessment will be carried out through regular class assessments, viva voce, and a final presentation, with an intimate cohort of 25–35 participants fostering an interactive and personalized educational experience.
List of Master’s Dissertation. 2006 2007 1.A Study on Coastal Water Pollution of Bangladesh in the Bay of Bengal 2.Role of The Corporate Sector in Earthquake Disaster: A Case Study of Dhaka City 3.Coping Mechanism at Char Communities with Reference to The Persons with Disabilities: Case Study of Sirajganj 4.Changes in Livelihood Pattern of Inhabitants in Waterlogged Areas in South-West Region in Bangladesh 5.Flood Proofing Project at Char and Haor: Impact on Household Food Security and Consumption 6.State of Disaster Risk Management in Dhaka City 7.Unplanned Urbanization of Dhaka City: Increase of Rainfall Induced Flood Vulnerability 1.Indigenous Coping Mechanisms in Combating Flood 2008 2009 1.Flood Disaster Mitigation in DND: Land Use Perspective 2.Structural Strengthening of Settlements in the Coastal Areas of Bangladesh 3.Implementing Standing Orders on Disaster (SOD) at Union Level: The Case of Kakua Union, Tangail District and Kazipur Union of Sirajganj District, Bangladesh 4.Women’s Livelihood Resilience and Adaptation Options for Climate Change 1.The State of GIS Application in Flood Management of Bangladesh 2.Assessing the Efforts of NGOs in Cyclone Disaster Management in Bangladesh 3.Assessment of Damage Due to Aila of Post SIDR Agricultural Rehabilitation: Insights from Sharankhola, Bagerhat 4.Integration of Ecosystem Management in Livelihood Restoration after a Disaster 5.The Potential Role of Mobile Network in Disseminating Flood Warning: A Study on A Pilot Project in Two Upazilas Under Manikganj and Tangail 6.Riverine Passenger Vessel Disaster in Bangladesh: Options for Mitigation and Safety 7.Assessing the Impacts of Oil Spillage from Ships on Coastal Environment of Bangladesh: Means for Response and Mitigation 8.Design and Dissemination of Message Community-Oriented Flood Warning
2010 2011 1.Upgrading Homesteads to Flood Shelters in Char Kochkhali, Gaibandha 2.An Action Framework of Incident Command System (ICS) For Bangladesh Armed Forces in Emergency Response 3.Char Dwellers’ Adaptation to Climate Change 4.Climate Change Impact on Livelihood and Vulnerability: A Case Study of Mushar Community in Saptari District in Nepal 1.Design of Readymade Garments Industry for Fire Safety 2.Suitability of Pond Sand Filters as Safe Drinking Water Solution in Storm Surge Prone Areas of Bangladesh: A Case Study of Post-Aila Situation in Khulna 3.Use of Indigenous Knowledge in Strategies for Disaster Risk Reduction for Flood Disaster: The Study of Tharu Community of Bardiya District of Nepal 4.Post Cyclone Rehabilitation of Agriculture in the Sidr Affected Areas in South West Bangladesh 5.People’s Perception in Early Warning System: A Case Study of Bhandara VDC Padariya-7 in Chitwan District, Nepal 2012 1.Recovery of Household-Level Assets: Towards a Cyclone Resilient Community 2.Impacts of Climate Change on Cropping Pattern in Coastal Region of Bangladesh: A Case Study of Sharankhola Upazila, Bagerhat 3.Reduction of Flood Risk by Indigenous Knowledge at Alekdiar Char of Shibalaya Upazila in Manikganj District 4.Landslide Risk Reduction of the Informal Foothill Settlements of Chittagong City through Strategic Design Measure 5.Community-Based Management of Glacial Lake Outburst Flood: A Case Study of Samdingkha Village in Bhutan 6.Enhancement of Resilience of Coastal Community in Bangladesh through Crop Diversification in Adaptation to Climate Change Impacts 7.Motivating Volunteers: A Case of Cyclone Preparedness Program Volunteers in Bangladesh 1.Quality of Life Among Survivors from Building Collapse: Case Study of Rana Plaza 2.Impacts of Flood on the Lives and Livelihoods of People in Bangladesh: A Case Study of a Village in Manikganj District 2014
2015 1.Role of ICT in Natural Disaster Management of Bangladesh 2.Building Resilient Communities through Architectural Interventions: Towards a Sustainable Future 3.Reducing Community Risk Through Disaster Resilient Housing in Bangladesh 4.Application of Scientific and Indigenous Knowledge for Flood Management in Northwest Bangladesh 5.Youth Volunteers as Change Agents in Disaster Response 6.Green Water Defense as Flood Mitigation Approach for Dhaka District 7.Reduction of Fire Hazard Risk in RMG Factories in Bangladesh through Design and Planning Approaches 8.Analysis of Socio-Economic Condition of Environmental Refugees in Dhaka 1.Thunderstorm and Disaster Management in Bangladesh 2.Farmers Adjustments to Rice Production in Response to Flood Hazard in Haor Basin Areas of Bangladesh 3.Assessing Architect’s Role in Seismic Evaluation and Risk Mitigation 4.A Study on Earthquake Preparedness in Schools in Dhaka North City Corporation 5.Impact of Cash Based Interventions in Livelihood Recovery of Waterlogging Affected Community in Satkhira District 6.Assessment of Lessons Learned in Rana Plaza Disaster 2016 1.Cyclone Warning in Bangladesh and Preparedness Effort 2.A Gender Perspective of Climate Change and Disaster Management Practices of a Cyclone Affected Coastal Community 3.Cash in Emergency: A Synthesis of Bangladesh Red Crescent Society Experience and Learning 4.Drinking Water Collection System in Cyclone Affected Coastal Village of Bangladesh 5.Localization of Aid – A Case of Bangladesh Flood 2017 6.Issues and challenges of Cyclone Preparedness Program (CPP) Volunteers: The Case of CPP, Dacope, Khulna 7.Response in Mass Casualty Incidents: Survival of Selected Tertiary Level Hospital in Bangladesh 8.Climate Change and Food Security in Northern Bangladesh: Experience of RDRS in Implementing Stress Tolerant Rice 9.The Roles of Real Estate Developer Companies in Disaster Management in Dhaka City 10.Existing Volunteerism in Response and Recovery on Disaster Management in Bangladesh 2017
2018 1.Volunteerism in Disaster Management: Case of Bangladesh 2.Rohingya Crisis – A Profile of Child Protection on Host Community Children 3.Flood Warning System: A Cost- Benefit Analysis of The Northern Bangladesh 4.Assessing the Cyclone Early Warning Services of Women, Children and Person with Disability: A Case Study in Nijhumdwip 5.Cultural Appropriateness of Post Sidr housing Reconstruction: A Case of Sharankhola, Bagerhat 6.Humanitarian Response Coordination Architecture in Bangladesh Rohingya Refugee Crisis Operation: Practice, Challenges and Prospects 1.Avalanche Risk Reduction and Community Resilience Building in Badakhshan, Afghanistan 2.Reliability of Rainwater Harvesting System in the Coastal Bangladesh: A Conceptual Framework for Cluster Approach Tank Sharing Model 3.Physical Environment of Child Friendly Space (CFS) As an Intervention of Child Protection: In Case of Forcibly Displaced Rohingya Children in Cox’s Bazar 4.Community Perception about Climate Change: Investigating Experiences of Himalayan Communities Involved in the Tourism Industry 5.Vulnerability and User Awareness Level Assessment of Fire Risks of High-Rise Buildings in Dhaka City: A Study of Mohakhali Commercial Area 6.Coping Strategies in Riverbank Erosion Affected Areas: A Case Study of Andharmanik Village in Manikganj District 7.Exploring Hazard Risks and People’s Adjustment: A Study in the Downstream of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project 8.Flood Vulnerability and Associated Risk Management in Umuebu Community, Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria 9.Role of Chemical Industry in Fire Safety Management in Bangladesh: A Case Study in Old Town Dhaka 2022 1.Evaluating Vulnerability and Resilience in the Face of Earthquake and Fire Risks 2.Community Based Risk Assessment on Landslides in Siddhalekh- Dhading 3.Assessing the Effectiveness of Structural and Non-Structural Flood Mitigation Measures of Bushrod Island’s Unplanned Settlements 4.Cause of Repetitive Fire Disaster in Informal Settlements and The Importance of Community-Based Disaster Risk Mitigation 5.Needs of Resilient Structure: A Case Study of Flood Disaster in Phuentsholing, Bhutan 2023
2024 1.Assessment of Fecal Sludge Management System in Rohingya Response Refugees Camps, Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar 2.An Inquiry into the Causes of Water Logging and the Coping Strategies of the Urban Poor: A Case of the Railway Slum, Khulna 3.Integrating Architecture in Rainwater Harvesting for Climate and Disaster Resilience in Coastal Cities: A Case Study of Cox’s Bazar 4.Analyzing Female Humanitarian Workers’ Challenges: A Case of Humanitarian Organizations in Afghanistan 1.Factors And Impacts of Water Logging in The City Life of Malibagh, Dhaka 2.Alternative Livelihood Options for Climate Victims: A Case Study of Farmer Community of Munshiganj Union at Satkhira District 3.Impacts of Structural Flood Mitigation Measure on Livelihood: Comparative Study of Three Settlements in Tanguar Haor, Sunamganj, Bangladesh 4.Guided Incrementalism: Informal Spatial Adaptation and the Future of Migrant Housing in Bangladesh 5.Assessing Climate Vulnerability and Resilience among Urban Female Adolescents: A Study in Dhaka’s Korail Slum 6.Women’s Vulnerability: Exploring The Condition of Earthquake in Qadis District, Badghis, Afghanistan 7.Reality Versus Fiction: A Crunch Model-Based Analysis of The Portrayal of Vulnerability in Bangla Disaster Film 2025
2010 2011 1.Impacts of Climate Change Induced Hazards and Adaptation Processes in Bangladesh: An Overview 2.The Role of Union Digital Centers in Reducing Social Inequalities in Bangladesh (no year heading on this page in the draft) 1.Essentials of Higher Education in Disaster Risk Reduction: Prospects and Challenges 2012 2013 1.Universities and Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction 1.Urban Risk Reduction Approaches in Bangladesh 2.Climate Change Adaptation Actions in Bangladesh 3.Bangladesh Climate Change Strategy and Action Plans 4.Disaster, Risk and Evolution of the Concept 5.Climate Change: Global Perspectives 6.Habitat and Infrastructures: A Localized Approach to Resilience 7.Cyclone And Tornado Risk and Reduction Approaches in Bangladesh 8.National Perspectives of Disaster Risk Reduction in Bangladesh (Disaster Risk Reduction Approaches in Bangladesh) 9.National Perspectives of Disaster Risk Reduction in Bangladesh (Climate Change Adaptation Actions in Bangladesh) 10.Reducing The Health Effect of Natural Hazards in Bangladesh 2014 2015 1.Post-Aila Community Recovery Innovations and Planning 2.In Support of Urban Adaptation: A Participatory Assessment Process for Secondary Cities in Vietnam and Bangladesh 1.Flood Shelters in Bangladesh: Some Issues from the User’s Perspective 2018 1.Community Perceptions of Flood Resilience as Represented in Cognitive Maps 2.Factors and Actors for Enhancing Community Flood Resilience: An Experience from a River-Side Settlement in Bangladesh 2019 1.Indigenous Knowledge for Enhancing Community Resilience: An Experience from the South-Western Coastal Region of Bangladesh List of Faculty Members’ Selected Publications
2020 1.External Interventions for Disaster Risk Reduction: Impacts on Local Communities 2.External interventions for enhancing community resilience: An overview of planning paradigms 3.Dependency on External Supports: An Addition to Community Vulnerability 4.Designing Spaces with Victims of Humanitarian Crisis: Action Research on Spaces for Children at Rohingya Camps in Bangladesh 5.Lessons from Humanitarian Clusters to Strengthen Health System Responses to Mass Displacement in Low and Middle-Income Countries: A Scoping Review 6.Scopes of community participation in development for adaptation: Experiences from the Haor Region of Bangladesh 1.Indigenous knowledge of mud architecture: experiences of surviving against multiple natural hazards 2021 1.Refugee Camps at Landslide Risk: Studying Mitigation Measures 2.Climate Change and Cyclone Risk Reduction 3.Water Sensitive Urban Design for Enhancing Flood Resilience: A Case Study in Brisbane City, Australia 4.Nature-based Resilience: Experiences of Five Cities from South Asia 5.How Can Humanitarian Services Provision During Mass Displacement Better Support Health Systems? An Exploratory Qualitative Study of Humanitarian Service Provider Perspectives in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh 6.Perceiving Resilience as Freedom: Experiences from Flood-prone Haor Settlements in Bangladesh 2022 1.Re-naturing Cities Through Water-Centric Development: Evaluating a Canal Restoration Project in Narayanganj City, Bangladesh 2.Climate change adaptation through nature-based solution: examining the case of Thakurani Khal of Mongla Port Municipality, Bagerhat Bangladesh 2023 1.Factors and Actors for Enhancing Community Flood Resilience: An Experience from a River-Side Settlement in Bangladesh 2.The Status and Prospect on Nature-Based Solution in South Asia: A Policy-Based Analysis 3.An Integrated Framework for Waterfront Development to Recognize Nature-based Solutions (NBS) in Urban Areas: Evaluating the Condition of Two Projects in Bangladesh 4.Determining the Climate Adaptive Capacity of Urban Actors: A Case Study of Mongla Port-Town in Bangladesh 5.A private sector entrepreneurial initiative for displaced women at Rohingya camp in Bhasan Char, Bangladesh 2024
2025 1.The Rohingya Camps: Permanence in Transition 2.Cyclone Sidr and Cyclone Aila Recovery in Bangladesh 3.How an Urban River Integrates or Disintegrates a City: The Case of Mongla Town, Bangladesh
2009 - 2010 A Comparative Analysis of Different Types of Flood Shelters in Bangladesh Disaster Resilient Habitat in Satkhira 2022 Reviewing Training Modules for CPP (Cyclone Preparedness Program of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief) Volunteers Matrix of Indicators for the Assessment of Response Capacity at the Municipal Level to Natural and Biological Hazards: Application in Bangladesh List of Faculty Members’ Selected Research Works. 2023 Certificate Program on Humanitarian Crisis Management 2024 Development of local guidebook on Compound and Cascading Disaster Risk Management in Bangladesh of the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) 2010 - 2011 2024 - 2026
Master’s Dissertation
2006 A Study on Coastal Water Pollution of Bangladesh in the Bay of Bengal Mohammed Mizanur Rahman Abstract The coastal region of Bangladesh faces significant vulnerabilities to natural disasters and environmental pollution, impacting its socio-economic development. Severe events like cyclones, floods, and human-induced pollution further exacerbate these risks. Pollutants from industrial wastes, agricultural practices, and inadequate waste treatment facilities lead to escalating water pollution. The government has initiated Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) since 1999, aiming for sustainable coastal management through partnerships and long-term strategies. Priority Investment Programs (PIP) will address pollution over time, focusing on sustainable development and reduced pollution levels.Student ID: 05268007 Supervisor Name: Dr. S. 1. Khan Keyword Disaster Management; Water Pollution; Marina Pollution; Coastal Water 1
Role of The Corporate Sector in Earthquake Disaster: A Case Study of Dhaka City Mushfequa Ferdous Abstract Natural hazards are an inevitable phenomenon all around the world and when the hazards go beyond human capabilities to cope with, then it turns into disaster. In the past the number of disasters and their impact on human and economic development worldwide have shown a steady increase. Urban areas in developing countries are more vulnerable due to dense population, unplanned urbanization, poverty and centralization of economic assets. Dhaka the capital of Bangladesh is situated in an earthquake prone area for its geological settings, moreover the unplanned expansion on filling lands magnifies the vulnerability. Bangladesh being an agrarian country, the industrial contribution is significant in the national economy. The corporate sector is an integral part of the community and draws its sustenance from it, and consequently cannot remain isolated from disaster reduction initiatives. The study finds the corporate sector's involvement in risk reduction activities especially on earthquake disaster mitigation. The various private sectors were selected on the basis of their contribution to the national economy. Various issues are to be integrated on corporate disaster preparedness and management to advocate materializing it as the corporate social responsibility. There is a Standing Order in the Government Policy but the incorporation of the business sector is yet to be addressed. It is not possible for the government alone to combat the disasters for lack of manpower, logistic support, financial assistance etc. The role and responsibilities of the corporate sector identified should be institutionalized to develop a comprehensive corporate contingency planning against disasters. So, a comprehensive earthquake preparedness plan can be possible by building partnerships with the business community and government along with the NGOs.Student ID: 05268002 Supervisor Name: Dr. K.M. Maniruzzaman Keyword Disaster management; Earthquake disaster; Corporate social responsibility 2
Coping Mechanism at Char Communities with Reference to The Persons with Disabilities: Case Study of Sirajganj Omar Farook Abstract The study focuses on coping mechanisms of the char population in Sirajganj, Bangladesh, a district highly prone to flooding. It explores how individuals, particularly persons with disabilities (PWDs), respond to floods, and assesses community awareness of government safety net programs, specifically the Risk Reduction Fund (RRF). Using Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) tools, the research engaged about 120 respondents to identify coping strategies across various domains like housing, agriculture, and social status. Findings revealed differences in coping between PWDs and non-PWDs, as well as among genders and within char areas, primarily due to varying access to resources. The study highlighted the need for effective distribution of external assistance and noted that community members were largely unaware of the RRF, indicating a significant gap in government outreach. Issues of corruption related to safety net program management were also uncovered, suggesting areas for further research. Overall, the findings aim to enhance understanding of coping mechanisms within these vulnerable communities.Student ID: 05268005 Supervisor Name: Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Keyword Disaster management; Char community 3
Changes in Livelihood Pattern of Inhabitants in Waterlogged Areas in South-West Region in Bangladesh Kaiser Rejve Abstract The coastal zone specially in the South-West part is ever dynamic and changes occur continually due to natural reasons, anthropogenic reasons and at the same time due to management interventions. Whatever is the agent of changes having a direct influence on the status and quality of coastal dweller’s life and livelihood. It is absolutely necessary to understand the development processes and dynamics in this region. Measurement of the conditions of the natural systems functionality, resource bases health, resources flow in one hand and at the same time access of the dwellers in this region to the services and resources are necessary to understand the wellbeing of the dwellers in the South-west region. This document is based on an analysis of existing data, information and experiences accompanied with findings of a questionnaire survey conducted for this study. Study revealed that the region has been subjected to different kinds of environmental imbalance and natural disasters ever since the implementation of "development" projects that are clearly at odds with the region's environmental characteristics, and are ecologically unsound. No holistic attempt at investigation and research has been made to ascertain the negative impacts of river siltation, waterlogging, salinity and other disasters on the life of the people - especially women and children - and on their economic and family lives, on education, health, and hygiene. Therefore, we need to take a correct approach towards the development of the South-west region. Isolated mechanical and technological approaches that have no consideration for the environment will necessarily fail to address the uniqueness and the problems of the coastal region. Only an eco-technological approach may bring about real development of the region. Study shows that local people have been trying to take part in decision making processes. Foreign experts come and go but they have no stake in the environment in which they apply their ‘superior’ knowledge and skills. But the local people have. They have to stay there and survive. Any change in the environment profoundly affects local communities and the lives of the people. Therefore, if local communities have to achieve desired progress, they have to have more power in taking decisions. Abstract facts, data, and debates on different issues should be made simple, so that people can easily understand these issues, and realize their own roles in the development of their region, as well as the consequences that might follow, and what they should do in such eventualities.Student ID: 05268018 Supervisor Name: Dr. S. I. Khan Keyword Disaster management 4
Flood Proofing Project at Char and Haor: Impact on Household Food Security and Consumption Shahnaz A. Zakaria Abstract Household food insecurity remains a significant challenge for vulnerable populations in rural Bangladesh, particularly in flood-prone char and haor regions. Many poor households achieve food security only through considerable sacrifices, such as allocating most of their income and time to obtaining food. To address this issue, CARE Bangladesh implemented the Flood Proofing Project (FPP) from October 1999 to September 2004 in selected flood-prone areas. The project aimed to improve household food security through flood-proofing interventions designed to reduce vulnerability and strengthen resilience. This study assessed the impact of FPP interventions on household food security using household food consumption as the primary indicator. Specifically, it measured the percentage of households meeting the minimum daily food requirement of 1,800 kilocalories per person. The objective was to determine whether at least 80 percent of households in the project areas could achieve this standard and whether food security outcomes were better than in non-project areas over a three-year period.The analysis was based on secondary data from the Comprehensive Food Security Data Collection Activity (DCA) conducted by The Asia Foundation. The DCA carried out six survey rounds between June 2003 and May 2006 in selected FPP intervention areas.The findings indicate that more than 87 percent of households in the project areas met the minimum food consumption requirement, exceeding the project target. Food security conditions remained relatively stable throughout the study period. Although a decline in household income during the second-year reduced food consumption, staple foods such as rice, cereals, and potatoes experienced only minor decreases. In contrast, consumption of nutrient-rich foods, including pulses, fish, meat, vegetables, fruits, and dairy products, declined more substantially.The study recommends greater emphasis on income-generating opportunities, public investment, and household-level consumption- smoothing measures. It also highlights the need for nutrition awareness programs, community mobilization, and training for asset maintenance. A holistic approach integrating poverty reduction, food security, and nutrition interventions is essential for sustainable development in char and haor areas.Student ID: 06168001 Supervisor Name: Dr. S. I. Khan Keyword Disaster management; Food security 5
State of Disaster Risk Management in Dhaka City Mohammad Aminur Rahman Abstract This study is aimed at giving an idea about where we are standing regarding disaster risks in Dhaka. It started with the disaster management context at the national level and detailed out the development and urban management process of Dhaka City. Vulnerability issues for Dhaka considered flood and earthquake, though in the latter parts earthquakes got more attention reasonably. An integrated approach for disaster risk management in Dhaka is yet to develop. The policy measures that have been taken so far in this regard lack proper enforcement. A laudable amount of quality research works has been conducted at the academic level considering the disaster risks that Dhaka holds. There have been some very good initiatives for capacity building in this field including academic programs, training and workshops. Different government and non- government organizations are dedicatedly working for awareness raising among communities. But lack of coordination and reluctance of the policy makers towards incorporating newer measures in the policy and lack of law enforcement as well, leave Dhaka in a very critical position considering specially the earthquake threat.Student ID: 05268004 Supervisor Name: Dr. K. M. Maniruzzaman Keyword Disaster management; Natural hazard; Urban management; Capacity building 6
Unplanned Urbanization of Dhaka City: Increase of Rainfall Induced Flood Vulnerability Mirza Abdul Ali Abstract Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh is one of the most populous megacities in the world. As the growth of urban population taking place at an exceptionally rapid rate, the city is unable to cope with changing situations due to their internal resource constraints and management limitations. In recent years Dhaka City is facing extensive water logging during the monsoon (May to October) as a common and regular problem of the city like water pollution, traffic congestion, air and noise pollution, solid waste disposal, black smoke etc. This research applied remote sensing and GIS techniques to detect the low land status in different time period and the trend of unplanned urbanization that is one of the major causes of water logging in Dhaka City. Remote sensing could provide timely and low-cost information on floods and land use status whereas GIS is an excellent tool in handling information in land management and flood mitigation. Management of drainage system of Dhaka City is presently a challenge for the urban authorities because of rapid growth of population and unplanned development activities. Therefore, a close coordination among urban authorities and agencies and collaboration between public and private sectors is needed for effective management and sustainable operation of urban drainage system. It ascertains the inherent causes of such water logging and its effects on the city life from the perception of authorities of different development organizations, experts and people living in different parts of Dhaka City.Student ID: 05268001 Supervisor Name: Dr. K. M. Maniruzzaman Keyword Disaster management; Urbanization; Drainage system; Water logging; GIS 7
2007 Indigenous Coping Mechanisms in Combating Flood Monzu Morshed Abstract Many people in the disaster-prone areas of Bangladesh depend on indigenous knowledge to cope with the extreme climate such as flood, cyclone and drought. In this digital world, although disaster related news is disseminated very fast but in most of the cases, disaster affected people did not receive humanitarian assistance i mmediately. Until government or non-government assistances reach to a disaster affected area, disaster affected people find out their own ways in doing things, survive on their own mechanisms. Historical records tell that the people of Bangladesh have faced disastrous situations through extending their mutual cooperation with their indigenous knowledge from time immemorial. So, there are ample scopes to identify indigenous coping mechanism against disaster from rural Bangladesh societies. Bangladesh is vulnerable to various hazards. Flood is a common hazard that happens almost every year in different magnitude. People in the flood prone areas have knowledge and techniques in combating negative effects of floods. So far, not much work has been done to map out information on copying mechanisms in combating floods. It is important to undertake such research so that relevant information is available for future reference. I therefore have chosen "Indigenous Coping Mechanisms in Combating Floods" as my subject for dissertation.Student ID: 07168001 Supervisor Name: Dr. K. M. Maniruzzaman Keyword Disaster management; Coping mechanism; Flood 8
2008 Flood Disaster Mitigation in DND: Land Use Perspective Md. Ruhul Amin Munshi Abstract The DND irrigation project, executed by BWDB from 1962-68, aimed to address food deficits and enhance food grain self-reliance in a 56.79 km² area near Dhaka and Narayanganj, protected by flood control embankments. However, rapid urbanization and inadequate drainage systems led to severe water logging, exacerbated by heavy rainfall, pollution, and unplanned development. The study identifies main causes of water logging and its detrimental effects on health, agriculture, and livelihoods. Recommendations for improvement include re-excavating drainage systems, evicting encroachments, and enhancing public awareness to ensure the DND area's sustainability and habitability.Student ID: 05268008 Supervisor Name: Dr. & Engr. S. I Khan and Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Keyword Disaster management; Disaster mitigation; Flood 9
Structural Strengthening of Settlements in the Coastal Areas of Bangladesh Tahmina Rahman Abstract The coastal areas of Bangladesh are prone to cyclone disasters for the geographical, economic and environmental background. It is recognized that Bangladesh will be adversely affected by climate change effects with more frequent and intensified cyclones. The loss and damages from such disasters are hard to overcome for a developing country like this. Considering the context mitigation cannot be a practical solution, but adaptation may be the feasible option to deal with future disasters. Strengthening the coastal settlements physically to reduce vulnerability can be a means of adaptation solution. This may be achieved by building/repairing dwelling houses with integration of local good practices and implemented engineered techniques, and available sustainable materials; so, the damages of assets and physical environment can be reduced. Improving community facilities like road network, community-based cyclone shelters, strong schools and hospitals etc., strong houses to act as community refuge can upgrade the quality of the built environment focusing on disaster risk reduction. This approach may be carried with the physical developments of the locality, rather than in the reconstruction phase after every disaster; so, the resilience of communities is increased and risks are reduced.Student ID: 07268010 Supervisor Name: Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Keyword Disaster management; Natural hazard; Resilient house; Coastal area 10
Abstract Bangladesh is arguably the world's most disaster-prone country. Repeated disasters destroy the economic resource base of the poor people and drain out the economic potential. The impacts and vulnerabilities of disasters could be minimized through proper disaster management planning and by integrating disaster management activities with local and national development plans. The study has been undertaken to explore how Union Disaster Management Committees (UDMCs) could be made more functional and proactive in implementing standing orders on Disaster (SOD). Union Disaster Management Committees (UDMCs) can play the key role for local level risk reduction planning. Standing orders on Disaster (SOD) issued by the Government of Bangladesh clearly defines the roles and responsibilities of UDMCs. In reality most of the UDMCs are not functional due to various reasons like lack of awareness/ knowledge, lack of resources, and strengthening UDMCs, UDMC members should be trained up for local risk reduction planning. Political commitment, allocation of resources, establishing proper monitoring & follow up system and Disaster Management Act are the issues which need to be addressed immediately for implementing standing orders on disaster (SOD) at Union levelStudent ID: 06268002 Supervisor Name: Mr. Md. Aminur Rahman Implementing Standing Orders on Disaster (SOD) at Union Level: The Case of Kakua Union, Tangail District and Kazipur Union of Sirajganj District, Bangladesh Mohammad Harun or Rashid Keyword Disaster management; Union disaster management; Disaster preparedness 11
Women's Livelihood Resilience and Adaptation Options for Climate Change Zubyda Siddika Abstract Climate disaster. like flood puts a lot of pressure on women whose responsibility is still that of keeping families together and feeding them. tip until now. a gender perspective has been mainly lacking from the international debate on climate change. The main objective of my research is identifying the perception of women regarding their livelihood option and their capacity to cope with climate change and prioritize the adaptation option for reducing their vulnerability. Saturia upazila in Manikganj district is selected as my research area due to flood proneness of the area and women's vulnerability to climate changes in agricultural and livestock sectors. A number of FGDs were carried out to elicit the perception of women regarding climate change and their preferred adaptation options. The threat of climate change as perceived by women includes long term flooding. higher frequency of flooding and sudden flooding. Women are now facing the threat of extreme poverty due to loss of income and damages to crops. As a result, their vulnerability is growing at an alarming rate due to climate impacts on the agricultural sector. The direct and indirect impact of current flooding is imposing negative effects on the livestock sector also. The community resilience is to cope with flooding by changing food habits. diversion of income option and depending on credit loan from NGO or local money lenders. Adaptation options are urgently needed for reducing women's vulnerability. The results of my research are highlighted to understand the adverse impact of climate change on women's livelihood options and the draft adaptation menu is selected through bottom-up approaches.Student ID: 07268004 Supervisor Name: Dr. Rezaur Rahman Keyword Disaster management; Rural women; Livelihood resilience; Women's livelihood; Climate risk 12
2009 The State of GIS Application in Flood Management of Bangladesh Halima Rahman Abstract Bangladesh is considered to be a country miserably affected by recurring floods with devastating dimensions exposing the national economy in the hands of nature. Complete flood control in the geographical context, particularly in the deltaic form is not at all a feasible option. Structural methods of flood protection are neither economically viable nor are environment friendly. Therefore, nonstructural methods are becoming popular in mitigating flood disasters. Among non-structural methods, modem flood forecasting and the association with real time data collection have increasingly found favor with countries prone to flood hazards. Flood risk mapping is required to provide information concerning flood risk areas and to establish flood protection and evacuation systems. It has been identified that timely flood forecasts and warnings are key elements to aid disaster preparedness, which in turn will reduce flood damages and human sufferings to a great extent. The existence of collecting information on floods extent and their effects are not very reliable. The system depends heavily on field information, which sometimes is erroneous and at times cannot even be collected until the recession of the floodwaters (EGIS, Dhaka, June 1998). Information from GIS can be used to extract, which is difficult to access by traditional methods. Use of GIS provides supplementary data in hydrology for such analysis and will lead to easier interpretation and understanding of flood phenomena and characteristics. The digital elevation Model (DEM) can be effectively used for simulation to get a complete model of the study area. Flood Management encompasses many environmental, social and engineering constraints. Decision making, although complex and difficult, can be greatly helped by using mathematical flood models and Geographical Information System. FMM unites these technologies as a first step towards a spatial decision support tool for flood management. This research attempts to find out the extent of the use of GIS in the flood management of Bangladesh. The Bangladesh Government has applied very sophisticated tools having GIS to monitor and mitigate the flood hazard of this country. With the help of remote sensing technology GIS can manage floods in a very effective way. If the ongoing projects can be finished the losses can be minimized in many sectors.Student ID: 05268008 Supervisor Name: Dr. Rezaur Rahman Keyword Disaster management; GIS; Flood management; Flood forecasting 13
Assessing the Efforts of NGOs in Cyclone Disaster Management in Bangladesh M. A. Quaiyum Sarkar Abstract Whenever disasters strike, they do not discriminate or differentiate - they cause havoc and distress. They strike countries' rich and poor, affect both men and women, old and young and cause destruction leaving behind a trail of devastation and irreparable losses. When these hazards strike, the communities are the first to react, irrespective of their profession, status, cast or culture. NGOs are Non-profit organizations or associations of private citizens with a common interest to assist the disaster affected people. The role of NGOs, especially with relief and rehabilitation programs, during and after disasters is to complement governmental efforts in Bangladesh. In principle, NGOs are responsible to assist the government in implementing national programs successfully. This study aims to assess the efforts of NGOs in cyclonic disaster management in Bangladesh. Coastal belts as cyclone disaster prone areas were included mostly for analysis. The study focused on response, recovery, rehabilitation, and affected community people. CARE Bangladesh, BRAC, and Muslim Aid Bangladesh were included mainly for the study. Data were collected based on secondary sources. Both qualitative and quantitative research approaches were applied for the study. The study showed that about 20% of the assistance to emergency response, recovery, and rehabilitation during the 1970 cyclone disaster was ensured by NGOs both national and internationals and it was more than 40% in 1991 cyclone disasters. The role of CARE Bangladesh, BRAC, and Muslim Aid Bangladesh to SIDR disaster management especially with emergency response, recovery, and rehabilitation activities was significant. CARE Bangladesh focused its response activities in four of the most affected upazilas in Bagerhat and Barguna districts. BRAC responded to the devastation in 30 upazilas (sub-districts) of 9 cyclone- Sidr affected districts of Southern Bangladesh. Muslim Aid Bangladesh focused its response, recovery, and rehabilitation activities intensely in three of the four worst affected areas (Bagerhat, Patuakhali, and Pirojpur). Presently, NGOs are giving emphasis on work with preventive measures as a strategy of disaster risk reduction.Student ID: 08268007 Supervisor Name: Dr. Babar Kabir Keyword Disaster management; Cyclone 14
Assessment of Damage Due to Aila of Post SIDR Agricultural Rehabilitation: Insights from Sharankhola, Bagerhat S. M. Alamgir Hussain Abstract Natural disasters occur almost every year in Bangladesh. Floods and cyclones are a very common phenomenon in this country. Every year it causes extensive damages to the lives and properties. Cyclone S/DR attacked on November 15, 2007 to the south and southwestern part of Bangladesh and caused devastating damage to the socio-economic and physical sectors. Damage to the agriculture sector was havoc in SIDR, especially to the hardest hit Sharankhola area. Farmers have been facing a lot of problems to bring all of their arable land under crops cultivation, especially, during winter Boro crops season a lion portion of their land remain untilled only due to salinity problem, and non-availability of quality seeds, agricultural equipments, timely low interest or interest free loan. The present study data revealed that due to cyclone SIDR 89% of the crops land was damaged and the post S/DR land cultivation recovery was about 65%, which was again affected by cyclone Aila. Few people could save their crops from damage of cyclone Ai1a. Crop land damage due to Aila was 21 % compared to the effect intensity of SIDR. Out of total 484 acres of arable land farmers cultivated 84% of land in the present post Aila Aman crops cultivation. Due to lack of' some essential agricultural support and some other constraints farmers could not bring all their arable land under cultivation, especially during winter crops (Bono) cultivation. During this cyclone agriculture sectors were affected adversely, return to the normal lives by the farmers now has become tougher for them unless they are supported externally. From the study findings, it was evident that most of the middle-class family became lower middle class and poor in post SIDR, and a slight improvement was found in post Aila in this regard. In terms of household level income, it was found that in post SIDR most of the families were found economically worse. At present, the number of economically worst households has improved by 24% compared to post S/DR status. In household level members' occupation, agricultural wage laborer and rickshaw puller number has increased slightly. On the other hand, the number of farmers' and service holders has also increased in the family. From the sampled villages quite a big number of people were dislocated to different places in the country. Farmers became more interested in growing high yielding varieties through adopting new technology in cultivation for getting quicker and increased production. It is essential to ensure all the agricultural support related to crops cultivation and to remove all hindrance in the process of smooth HYV cultivation and to setback the disaster victim farmers to their original state of life, and agriculture-based activities. By ensuring all these necessary agricultural supports the national food security can be strengthened.Student ID: 08268005 Supervisor Name: Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Keyword Disaster management; Agricultural rehabilitation; Cyclone shelter 15
Integration of Ecosystem Management in Livelihood Restoration after a Disaster Saadia Majeed Abstract People and environment become more vulnerable when natural disasters strike in a vulnerable community; and for Bangladesh vulnerability to natural disaster is rooted into its geographic location as it is the world largest delta compounded with a series of hydro - meteorological and geo-physical factors. Furthermore, the impacts of climate change have triggered the events of acute natural disasters such as flood and cyclone in Bangladesh. The vulnerability of these disasters severely compromises the rural livelihood capitals of at-risk communities and existing ecosystems. It is believed theoretically that Ecosystem Management Approach as a better alternative for sustainable livelihood restoration after any disaster. Based on this ground, this study has been carried out in 4 districts of Bangladesh. Two of them are from riverine flood prone and two districts are from coastal-cyclone prone areas. The study has outlined livelihood capitals of at-risk communities, their coping and adaptive strategies and the options for ecosystem approach. The information was collected through participatory methods followed by DIFDs livelihood analysis guidelines. This study was aimed to observe the relationship between ecosystem management approaches in livelihood restoration initiatives at disaster prone areas through a multi- scale approach that combines local and scientific knowledge. The study showed that the ecosystems of both the areas have undergone various short term and long-term cyclical changes due to frequent disasters, unplanned developmental efforts, management practices of local institutions over time. It has also demonstrated the dynamic interaction between livelihood and ecological systems, and the played institutional gaps and changes to cope during aftermath of disasters.Student ID: 08268009 Supervisor Name: Dr. Wahidul Islam Keyword Disaster management; Ecosystem management; Sustainable livelihood; Flood hazard 16
The Potential Role of Mobile Network in Disseminating Flood Warning: A Study on A Pilot Project in Two Upazilas Under Manikganj and Tangail M. Kamran Abstract The Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna (GBM) river systems in India and Bangladesh are some of the most flood-prone river systems in the world. Excessive floods present serious risks to the millions of people living in the floodplain areas. In a normal year an estimated 25 percent of Bangladesh is flooded, whereas, in an excessive flood year an estimated 65 percent of the country is flooded. Despite constant and pervasive flooding, Bangladesh does not have an effective system for providing useful flood forecasts or other flood warning information at the community level. The present system of government-issued flood warnings is presented in both a context and a format that are neither understood nor usable by the floodplain inhabitants. Riverside Technology Inc. America (RTi), Center for Geographical Information Services (CEGIS) and Bangladesh Disaster Preparedness Centre (BDPC) jointly initiated useful, timely, and understandable flood information dissemination at the community level to reduce vulnerability to damage due to flooding in the floodplains of Bangladesh. The pilot initiative was taken at Baro Bonna village of Jiyonpur union in Daulotpur upazila under Manikganj district and at Dhunail village of Doptior union in Nagorpur upazila under Tangail district. Both the villages are in the flood plain of Brahmaputra River system and very much prone to frequent flooding. The name of this pilot initiative is Community-based Flood Information System (CFIS) where CEGIS with the support of RTi performed technical responsibility to produce flood information and BDPC played the role of social partner to reach the information to the inhabitants of the villages in an understandable manner. For communities and inhabitants to benefit from flood forecasts, the information must be context based, timely and in a format that is understandable and useful. The CFIS project fully recognized the technical challenges of creating reliable local level forecasts, and the equal, if not greater, challenge of communicating the information to local communities. This project, for the first time in the history of Bangladesh, used mobile networks as a means for connecting root level people with flood forecasts through Short Messaging System (SMS) and commenced a new era for warning community people of flood disaster.Student ID: 07268006 Supervisor Name: Dr. Maksud Kamal Keyword Disaster management; Riverine vessel; Inland waterway; Mitigation 17
Riverine Passenger Vessel Disaster in Bangladesh: Options for Mitigation and Safety Abul Kalam Azad Abstract Bangladesh is a riverine country and waterways are very important means of communication in this region. For a long time, the traditional river network has been regarded as a safe and cost- effective route especially in the southern part of Bangladesh. Every year around 87.80 million passengers are carried through this route (Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority). This important mode of transport is ridden with tragic disasters every year, incurring a heavy toll of human lives. Around 3,869 people have died and 279 gone missing in 458 launch disasters since 1976 (Department of Shipping). The inland routes of Barisal, Bhola, Chandpur and Patuakhali and their connected water ways to Dhaka and Chittagong are found to be more accident prone. Boundless operation of unfit vessels, overloading of passengers, recruitment of unskilled crews, poor capacity of relevant government bodies and low standard maintenance of Inland Water Transport (IWT) channels are initiating these deadly accidents. The government's weakness in enforcing laws, mismanagement, negligence and irresponsibility of concerned authorities, profit centred attitude of vessel owners, corruption and insufficient budget are the underlying causes of these tragic disasters. The unlimited death causing accidents definitely has a negative impact on this promising sector of transportation. Government is to take immediate measures for establishing risk free riverine transport systems and eradicating irregularities and corruption from this sector for proving sincerity and pro-poor stance. This study is an attempt to identify different factors that cause passenger vessel fatalities and thereby address viable options for Bangladesh.Student ID: 08268023 Supervisor Name: Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Keyword Disaster management; Riverine vessel; Inland waterway; Mitigation 18
Assessing the Impacts of Oil Spillage from Ships on Coastal Environment of Bangladesh: Means for Response and Mitigation Iqbal Karim Abstract Commonly we hear about the biggest oil spills but oil spills occur every day. Some spills are unintentional while others are deliberate illegal discharges of bilge oil ship's waste. As long as society depends on oil and petroleum products, spills are a substantial risk. Understanding environmental impacts along contingency planning is needed to mitigate the effects of oil spills. O'I spilled at sea has numerous environmental impacts affecting everything from seabirds to sea life to life on land. The coast of Bangladesh stretching to about 710 km where approximately 12%) of the country's 150 million population live is known as a zone of multiple vulnerabilities as well as opportunities. It is prone to several natural disasters such as cyclones, Storm surges, floods and river erosion. In combination with the other natural hazards, man- made hazards in various forms like land-based pollution from agricultural chemical, industrial residues, farm effluents, solid waste, sewage disposal and top of all. pollution from ships due to both operational and accidental oil spillage, pose the coasts of- Bangladesh with greater and larger threats of devastation and inexpressible damage to lives, properties, livestock, infrastructures, life support chain and environment. The fate and behavior of' oil on shorelines is influenced by many factors. Some of which relate to the type of oil, some to characteristics of the shoreline and others to conditions when the oil is deposited on the shoreline such as weather and waves. For example, an oil slick could be carried by surface currents or winds to areas where it causes the greatest damage to wildlife habitat. On the other hand, a slick could be carried out to the deep sea where it disperses naturally and has lesser direct effect on the environment. Contingency planning is an important step in ensuring of elective response to oil Spills-Response teams include operations, science and communications personnel. Action planning includes stopping the flow of oil, containing the oil, and cleaning it up.Student ID: 08268006 Supervisor Name: Dr. Fuad Hassan MallickKeyword Disaster management; Oil pollution; Coastal environment 19
Design and Dissemination of Message Community-Oriented Flood Warning Md. Saiful Hossain Abstract Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to flooding due to its unique geographical and hydrological conditions. Floods remain one of the country's most frequent and damaging natural hazards, and their impacts are expected to intensify because of persistent poverty, environmental degradation, rapid population growth, urbanization, weak governance, and the growing effects of climate change. Since independence, the Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC) of the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) has been responsible for issuing flood forecasts and warning messages. However, existing warning systems often fail to meet the information needs of flood-prone communities and local disaster managers.Against this backdrop, the study titled “Design and Dissemination of Community-Oriented Flood Warning Message” was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of current flood warning messages and dissemination procedures and to develop a more community-focused warning system. Effective flood warning messages should clearly communicate when flooding is likely to occur, the nature of the flood, the areas at risk, and the actions people should take to protect themselves. Such warnings must also originate from credible and official sources. The study was conducted in Daulatpur Upazila of Manikganj District, a flood-prone area. Findings revealed significant weaknesses in both the content and dissemination of warning messages, limiting their usefulness in helping communities prepare for and respond to flood events. The study recommends that warning messages be prepared in Bangla, tailored to specific localities at least at the Upazila level, and focused on actionable guidance. Messages should include information on expected water-level changes and peak flood levels, expressed in both metric units and feet/inches for easier public understanding. Additional recommendations include establishing flood markers or reference pillars in each flood-prone Upazila, extending deterministic forecast lead times from three to five days, and providing qualitative forecasts up to ten days in advance. Daily five-minute radio and television broadcasts on flood conditions and preparedness measures are also suggested. Community-level dissemination should involve mosque imams, school teachers, Ansar, police, village police, and community police. Furthermore, voice-based flood warnings through mobile phone networks should be introduced. Financial support to Upazila Disaster Management Committees (UDMCs) is essential to ensure operational effectiveness. Finally, stronger collaboration between BWDB and the Disaster Management Bureau (DMB), supported by initiatives such as the Comprehensive Disaster Management Programme (CDMP), is recommended to establish an effective community- based flood warning systemStudent ID: 08268004 Supervisor Name: Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Keyword Disaster management; Flood Forecast 20
2010 Upgrading Homesteads to Flood Shelters in Char Kochkhali, Gaibandha Md. Rubayet Ibn Adham Abstract Bangladesh, a riverine country with more than 250 rivers, experiences extensive flooding every river courses. This study focused on the char areas of Fulchari Upazila in Gaibandha District to explore how flood-resilient homesteads can improve the living conditions of char communities. Field investigations revealed that more than 400 families live in the study area. Approximately 150 year. The country's vast network of rivers has created numerous char lands—temporary river islands formed through the gradual deposition of sediments. Although char lands are highly fertile and productive, they are also extremely vulnerable to flooding, erosion, and environmental instability. As a result, char dwellers must continuously adapt to the challenges posed by annual floods and changing families reside on relatively higher land, around 50 families occupy medium- elevation areas, while the remaining households live on low-lying land that is highly susceptible to seasonal flooding. The livelihoods of these communities depend primarily on agriculture, fishing, daily wage labor, and small-scale businesses. Despite the risks, people continue to settle in char areas because they believe that although land may be lost to erosion, new land will eventually emerge through sediment deposition. However, recurring floods, including the devastating flood of 1998, have repeatedly disrupted livelihoods and settlements. While government agencies and non-governmental organizations have undertaken rehabilitation efforts, progress has been constrained by limited technology, inadequate coordination, and the absence of specific development policies for char communities. The study identified locally available resources, materials, and traditional practices used for housing construction and livelihood activities. In Kochkhali Char, residents estimated that the landmass would remain stable for another five to six years, attracting new settlers. Nevertheless, char communities continue to face major challenges, including poor communication facilities, limited educational opportunities, loss of agricultural land, and restricted income-generating activities. The lack of planned settlement patterns and resilient housing technologies further increases their vulnerability to floods. Abundant vegetation and fertile soils provide opportunities for enhancing household resilience. Residents cultivate vegetables and other plants around their homes, on rooftops, and on bamboo structures to supplement food supplies. The study concludes that by combining local resources with improved construction techniques and appropriate technologies, it is possible to develop flood-resistant and economically sustainable homesteads. Such an approach can strengthen community resilience and help char dwellers better withstand the impacts of recurring floods.Student ID: 09268002 Supervisor Name: M Aminur Rahman Keyword Disaster management; Flood Shelter 21
An Action Framework of Incident Command System (ICS) For Bangladesh Armed Forces in Emergency Response Md. Ashique Hasan Ullah Abstract The incident command system (ICS) is entirely a management tool which creates a scope for the civil organization to establish a temporary organization which will help them to carry out the emergency response operation smoothly. The ICS was incorporated from military structure. The well-defined and command structure inspires the civil organization to adopt ICS. In the world most developed countries are now following the ICS in their emergency response system. Recently India has also formulated the guideline for ICS in their country. This study focuses the action framework of the Armed forces at District level based on the context of ICS. The action framework of Armed forces is proposed through various models with their advantages and disadvantages. This dissertation also tries to focus on the proposed communication system for the ICS. At the end this dissertation recommends guidelines for the successful implementation of ICS in Bangladesh.Student ID: 09268006 Supervisor Name: Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Keyword Disaster management 22
Char Dwellers' Adaptation to Climate Change Nasrul Momen Saifullah Abstract Climate disasters like flood, river erosion puts a lot of pressure especially on char dwellers whose responsibility is to remain together as family and earn subsistence in day-to-day life. The main objective of this research is identifying the perception of char dwellers regarding their livelihood option and their capacity to cope with climate change and prioritize the adaptation option for reducing their vulnerability. Kazipur upazila in Sirajganj district was selected as research area due to flood proneness of the area and char dweller's vulnerability to climate changes in agricultural and livestock sectors. A pretested questionnaire was used to interview 50 respondents to elicit the perception of char dwellers regarding climate change and their preferred adaptation options. An insignificant section of respondents had observations on extra water level rise and appreciation about high temperature. The majority of the respondents mentioned (78%) flooding as a natural process. To overcome the natural disaster in char areas they change crop patterns with seasons, select time of cultivation after prediction of natural disaster and to survive and earn livelihood they also select occupation with season. They cultivate mostly Boro and Rabi paddy during January to June. Most of the respondents mentioned their reduced livelihood options, suffering from different types of diseases, earning loss, taking loans with high interest and losing household assets as the impacts of natural disaster exacerbated by the erratic behavior of climate. They also mentioned that they need to migrate (90%), lose their and cattle's food (80%), become poor (80%) and interrupt education (96%) as a result of the flood. The respondents mostly used pond and river water (42%) for daily uses. For drinking purposes, they also used (40%) tube well. They mentioned the following options to adapt with climate change. They changed their crop pattern (80%), need a place to stay during floods, cyclones etc natural disasters (80%), need high land to preserve livestock (86%), temporary income options needed (70%), need clean water supply (90%). The conducted study tried to capture a snapshot of how climate change is already affecting people living in poverty. Finally, adaptation options are urgently needed for reducing Char Dweller's vulnerabilityStudent ID: 09268005 Supervisor Name: Dr. Rezaur Rahman Keyword Disaster management, Char dwellers, Climate Change 23
Climate Change Impact on Livelihood and Vulnerability: A Case Study of Mushar Community in Saptari District in Nepal Sushant Sharma Abstract Climate change impact and vulnerability towards the change on the poor people has always been a significant aspect of issue and discussion worldwide. With the greenhouse gases increasing, various consequences of climate change are pressurizing the resources on which people are dependent for their livelihood. Various studies done at the country level and worldwide have proven that Nepal is one of the worst sufferers of climate change. Climate change is also being proved as doldrums for making people more vulnerable to shocks and stresses more over burden on livelihood capitals i.e. natural, physical, social, financial and human. The main objective of the paper was to assess vulnerability and impacts of climate change on livelihood among Mushar communities in Saptari district of Nepal at Koshi basin. For this research participatory tools for assessing climate change were used with various other tools like interview, observation etc for validating the findings. To assess the information, literature was reviewed from different journal articles, published books, government policies, meteorological and hydrological data and other unpublished thesis work and articles. Different livelihood resources like agriculture, water, forest, public health and settlements are vulnerable to climate change. The result shows that there is an increasing trend of rainfall and discharge in the Koshi River. Also, the average temperature is in the increasing trend for the Koshi basin inviting different troubles for the livelihood’s aspect in form of flood, cold wave, illness, livestock disease etc. creating more challenges in the livelihood of the Mushar community. Though all households in the VDC (Village Development Committee) are vulnerable to climatic crises, the problem is more acute for the poor, landless, children, women, and large sized families among the Mushar family. To cope with the impacts the community is using saving and credit, wood selling and other activity, disaster preparedness plan and disaster management committee as strategy. Awareness raising and capacity building are among the coping strategies provided by the government institution and NGOs in the area. Thus, the study suggests addressing the climate change challenges for the community with the help of study at micro level and making plans, policies and programmes of adaptation for the Mushar community to withstand the shocks of climate change for the most vulnerable group.Student ID: 09268001 Supervisor Name: Dr. Rezaur Rahman Keyword Disaster management, Livelihood 24
2011 Design of Readymade Garments Industry for Fire Safety Ahsan Firoz Abstract In Bangladesh businesses are growing at an ever-fast rate. New businesses are opening every day in every possible sector. Taking purchasing power parity into account Bangladesh is the 44th largest economy in the world. Bangladesh is also listed in the N-11 (next 11) by the Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. Among all the industries, at present textiles and readymade garments‟ industry are the top ones. Recently the WTO has ranked Bangladesh as the 4th largest exporter of readymade garments‟ in the world. This sector contributes 75% of foreign currency earnings for Bangladesh. Textiles and Readymade Garments‟ sector contributes 13% of GDP and employs more than 3,000,000 people. It has bought benefits and blessings for millions of people in the country. This industry has played a significant role in elevating the economic and living standard of millions of families all over the country. Along with bringing blessings for the nation, textile and RMG industries also hold the record of experiencing some of the worst industrial accidents in the country. Taking advantage of poor surveillance of concerned authorities‟ rules, laws and codes are often violated in the construction sector of our country and factory buildings are no exception. It is popularly believed and often proven true by incidences that the building codes are only maintained in paper works and hardly during the construction phase. Later as the owner focuses on the interior works, machine placement etc. the floors are often overloaded with machinery, causing more population load during operational hours, narrowing circulation spaces, thus making it difficult for the people to access the emergency route during an emergency. Many factories do not arrange regular drills; therefore, the workers discover themselves in an alien situation whenever an emergency situation arises, causing panic, stampede etc. that further escalate the degree of casualty. In the conditions as above the aforementioned thesis is proposed to evaluate the design of garments factories from a safety point of view especially in case of a fire out. The dissertation would focus on literature, expert interviews and case study on previous incidence to find out the major reasons for casualty in case of fire in a RMG factory. The dissertation would then contain some software simulation with space syntax depth map to evaluate the validity of the findings and would propose suggestions to alleviate the chances of casualty in RMG factories especially in case of fire.Student ID: 10268004 Supervisor Name: Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Keyword Disaster management; Ready-made garments; Fire safety 25
Suitability of Pond Sand Filters as Safe Drinking Water Solution in Storm Surge Prone Areas of Bangladesh: A Case Study of Post-Aila Situation in Khulna Sayeeda Farhana Abstract This study evaluates the suitability of Pond Sand Filters (PSFs) as a safe drinking water source in the storm surge-prone coastal areas of southwestern Bangladesh. The region is highly vulnerable to floods, cyclones, tidal surges, and salinity intrusion, challenges that are intensifying due to climate change. Access to safe drinking water is particularly difficult because river water is saline and many conventional water sources become unusable after disasters.PSFs were introduced as an alternative water supply technology that treats rainwater stored in freshwater ponds by filtering it through layers of sand and gravel. The study focuses on Munshiganj Union of Shyamnagar Upazila in Satkhira District, one of the area’s most severely affected by Cyclone Aila in 2009. The cyclone caused extensive salinity intrusion, contaminating ponds and tube wells and creating a severe drinking water crisis. Although PSFs have been used in the area since 1984 and are generally well accepted by local communities, their effectiveness under increasing disaster and salinity risks had not been adequately assessed. The research employed both primary and secondary data sources, including field observations, informal interviews, and key informant interviews with community members, PSF users, caretakers, local leaders, and representatives of governmental and non-governmental organizations. The assessment focused on water quality, management and maintenance practices, and resilience to disasters.The findings indicate that the effectiveness of PSFs depends largely on the availability of freshwater in ponds and regular maintenance of the filtration systems. Their resilience during disasters can be improved by raising pond embankments to prevent saline water intrusion. However, community participation and collective responsibility for maintenance were found to be limited. The ability of PSFs to provide safe water after disasters also depends on the rapid repair and restoration of both the filtration units and associated ponds. Although the study could not draw definitive conclusions regarding the overall suitability of PSFs due to limited time and sample size, it highlights their potential as a viable drinking water option. Further research involving larger sample sizes, different geographic settings, and modified PSF designs is recommended to better assess their long-term effectiveness in coastal Bangladesh.Student ID: 10268013 Supervisor Name: Dr. Ainun Nishat Keyword Disaster management, Pond sand filter, Safe drinking water 26
Use of Indigenous Knowledge in Strategies for Disaster Risk Reduction for Flood Disaster: The Study of Tharu Community of Bardiya District of Nepal Rachhita Dhungel Abstract The main aim of this study was to explore the use of indigenous knowledge and practices in Tharu Community to reduce the impact of flood disasters. Disasters are more frequent and prominent at the present. Nepal is not an exception either. When the disaster strikes, it is poor and marginalized groups that suffer the most. Tharu Community in Nepal is one of the marginalized and vulnerable communities for flood hazards. Hence it is crucial to increase the understanding about the ways in which impacts of extreme events can be reduced. To carry our Disaster Risk Reduction approaches, it is first required to understand what the community needs. Promotion of new risk reduction options needs to consider local tradition and norms to ensure their acceptability by the local people. In spite of huge investments in the area of disaster management, losses continue to mount. The need to bridge the gap between practice and policy with the recognition of indigenous knowledge and local coping strategies is the must. Hence this paper is an attempt to understand the local practices used by Tharu Community. The research showed that the community people did have knowledge regarding the changing climate and are putting their own efforts in order to cope up. They have their own ways of forecasting and early warning systems. They are using the traditional ways of embankment in order to minimize the adverse effects of floods. However, the indigenous practices which proved to be useful in the past years were not enough to cope with the rapid change in climatic patterns. The need to integrate scientific strategies in these indigenous practices is a must.Student ID: 10268011 Supervisor Name: Mr. Rezaur Rahman Keyword Disaster management; Flood disaster; Disaster risk reduction 27
Post Cyclone Rehabilitation of Agriculture in the Sidr Affected Areas in South West Bangladesh Ratan Chandra Biswas Abstract Bangladesh is one of the most disaster-prone countries of the world. Every year the country experiences one or more natural disasters like cyclones and floods. Bangladesh is an agricultural country. But unfortunately, this sector faces different disasters almost every year. So, we should give more focus on the quick rehabilitation processes so that the affected farmers can bounce back and can contribute to the normal development. Like other disasters, Sidr, which took place in 2007, caused huge damage in the southern parts of Bangladesh. Considering the long-lasting effects of Sird, through this dissertation the author tried to identify the impacts of this calamity on the agricultural sector. Moreover, the coping mechanism of the farmers has also been identified through this to develop an effective response process so that it can be used in the upcoming disasters. To make this dissertation fruitful and to get some ideas from other researchers at first a literature review has been done. Based on the literature review, a two pages questionnaire has been developed and used to take interviews of the farmers. After evaluating the primary and secondary data, the study found that very few farmers could save their crop from the devastation of cyclone Sidr and most of their cattle also died. The salinity of soil increased alarmingly. Even the ground as well as the surface water was contaminated due to severe salinity of sea water. Very few farmers could start their agricultural activities themselves immediately after the cyclone Sidr due to the crisis of agricultural supports like seed, irrigation, power tiller etc. The farmers could not plough their land for missing their cattle. The irrigation system was broken down for contamination of ground and surface water. However, ultimately, they started their livelihood with the help of different organizations like BRAC, World vision, Wave Foundation etc. The farmers appreciate these supports but still a few more effective initiatives are needed. So, the study has suggested taking an integrated agricultural program (seed, irrigation, pesticide, power tiller, nursing, training etc.) for a better result in crop agricultural rehabilitation for the upcoming disasters.Student ID: 10268017 Supervisor Name: Dr. Shahjahan Mondal Keyword Disaster management; Natural disaster; Cyclone prone; Agriculture 28
People's Perception in Early Warning System: A Case Study of Bhandara VDC Padariya-7 in Chitwan District, Nepal Richa Lamichhane Abstract Flood impact and vulnerability towards the poor people have always been a significant aspect of issue and discussion worldwide. With the current climate change scenario and various studies in the past related to climate change has shown that flood frequency has increased leaving people in the flood plains more vulnerable. People in the river bank due to lack of EWS and also due to the inefficiency of the prevailing system are more prone to stress and burden in their lives due to floods. The main objective of the paper was to understand the perception of the particular community towards the prevailing Early Warning System (EWS), their response mechanism during the flood at Padariya-7 of Bhandara VDC in Chitwan district of Nepal. For this research participatory tools for assessing the perception and response mechanism, various tools like, Resource Mapping, Timeline Analysis, Focus Group Discussion were used and Key Informant Interview (KII) was used for validating the findings. To assess the information literature were reviewed from different journal articles, published books, government policies, and other unpublished thesis work and articles. EWS is a very important aspect of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). For the people in the community since the establishment of the system, it has proved not of any significance. People were hostile towards the project as it was giving a false sense of hope towards the people. No proper warning dissemination techniques were found during the study. Moreover, villagers have no regular drills even though the project was in the implementation phase. Rather than using the Early Warning facility people living in the river bank for many decades were more found to be using the traditional knowledge for forecasting of the flood. No focus of the NGO was found to be upgrading the EWS after it was over. Though most of the people go to the embankment to see the level of the river during the rainy season the problem is more acute for the disabled, old age, ill people and lactating mothers who have less mobility. Thus, the study suggests addressing the challenges in the early warning facility for the community with the help of study at micro level and making plans, policies and programmes of improvement of the system with more lead time of forecast and proper dissemination techniques for the sufferer of the flood in the river basin of Rapti.Student ID: 10268010 Supervisor Name: Dr. Rezaur Rahman Keyword Disaster management; Climate change; Early warning 29
2012 Recovery of Household-Level Assets: Towards a Cyclone Resilient Community Shawly Samira Abstract Globally Bangladesh is recognized as one of the most vulnerable countries to natural calamities. Along with cyclones and floods; two most discussed and disastrous hazards of the country, landslides have caused the death of nearly 235 people in various informal settlements of Chittagong city and its adjacent urban centers since 1997. In Chittagong city, about 30 percent of the total population lives in the informal settlements where living environments are quite unsatisfactory and they are deprived of access to basic facilities. The rapid growth of urban population of Chittagong city is fuelled by migration of the rural poor to the city, drawn by perceived chances of finding cash employment in the industrial sector and pushed by the limited opportunities in rural areas. On arrival, many are unable to afford proper housing, so turn to live in informal settlements. Ineffective hill management policy at the national level and weak enforcement by the local authorities has created space for growing many informal settlements along landslide prone hill slopes and foothills in Chittagong city. However, there is no institutional arrangement for vulnerability assessment of those informal settlements to landslides. Neither national level landslide risk reduction organizations nor local level organizations and NGOs have planned and executed any proper structural and non-structural mitigation measures other than conventional stabilization (simple retaining walls) of hill toe and relocation respectively. Besides being more affected by landslides the informal settlers have less willingness to adapt risk reduction measures like relocation. Mostly land tenure conflict, trust, socio-economic status (education, income) and powerlessness inhibit these populations in accepting new institutional arrangements. This study explores different strategic design measures on the basis of assessment of risk, uncertainty, possible consequences, constructability, environmental impacts and costs. It suggests that, while proposing a specific measure, it is best to keep it simple to match the physical characteristics of the hill and the availability of materials. The study tries to contribute in the development of a comprehensive design solution to reduce landslide vulnerability that can be adapted to ensure the settlers immediate safety.Student ID: 11268009 Supervisor Name: Sheikh Rubaiya Sultana Keyword Disaster management 30
Impacts of Climate Change on Cropping Pattern in Coastal Region of Bangladesh: A Case Study of Sharankhola Upazila, Bagerhat Md. Mohosin Ali Abstract Natural disasters occur almost every year in Bangladesh due to climate change. Crop agriculture is often constrained by different hazards and disasters such as floods, droughts, soil and water salinity, cyclones and storm surges (MoEF 2009b). It is a very common phenomenon in coastal regions of this country. Southwestern part (Khulna region) of Bangladesh is one of the worst affected regions facing the early impacts of climate change particularly in the agricultural and socio-economic sector. Every year it causes extensive damage to the agriculture sector in Sharankhola Upazila and changes cropping patterns day by day. The Farmers of Sharankhola face a lot of problems to bring all of their arable land under crops cultivation, especially, during winter Boro crops season a lion portion of their land remain until only due to salinity problem, and unavailability of quality seeds and agricultural equipment. The dominant crop grown in the saline areas is locally transplanted Aman rice crop with low yields. The cropping patterns followed in the coastal areas are mainly Fallow-Fallow-Transplanted Aman rice. The crop yield is negatively impacted by rise in temperature, erratic rainfall, flooding, salinity, etc. and among which water logging and drainage congestion are the major problems. The ecological conditions are more vulnerable which is very likely to be alerted though slowly but surely due to climate change and sea level rise. Salinity causes unfavorable environment and hydrological situations that restrict the normal crop production throughout the year. The factors which contribute significantly to the development of saline soil are, tidal flooding during wet season (June-October), direct inundation by saline water, and upward or lateral movement of saline ground water during dry season (November-May). Dependency on fertilizer and irrigation is increasing which leads to permanent fertility loss of the land, loss of biodiversity, extinction of local verities, ground water scarcity, loss the sustainability of production. However, adaptations to climate change like agronomic manipulations, sustainable climate-resilient agriculture, shifting the planting dates, using short duration crop cultivars can reduce vulnerabilities, delay the process and increase food security.Student ID: 11268016 Supervisor Name: M. Aminur Rahman Keyword Disaster management; Climate change; Cropping; Coastal region 31
Reduction of Flood Risk by Indigenous Knowledge at Alekdiar Char of Shibalaya Upazila in Manikganj District Selina Hakim Abstract The present study tries to identify the livelihood practices of the char dwellers. It also focuses on assessing their economic condition in relation to livelihood practices. Local people’s participation in the research process has been ensured by Focus Group Discussion, Informal Interview. Most of the farmers don’t have their own land as they also cultivate khas (public) land. The rest of the people are engaged in day labor activities, petty business and others (boatsmen). Cultivated land, domestic animals, grazing land and wet land are the major natural resources of Alekdiar Char. The Char dwellers face flood & river bank erosion almost every year. They have some traditional knowledge by which they are able to cope up with this situation. In my study I tried to understand the socio-economic profile of Alekdiar Char. I also tried to find out the practices regarding house, agriculture, and health. They have no academic knowledge but they are living for many years in Chars. As a result, they have a very good capacity which we call indigenous knowledge. With this they are able to reduce vulnerabilities. Finally, I recommended some of my findings of Alekdiar Char for further studyStudent ID: 11268023 Supervisor Name: Dr. Ainun Nishat Keyword Disaster management; Indigenous knowledge; Char dweller 32
Landslide Risk Reduction of the Informal Foothill Settlements of Chittagong City through Strategic Design Measure Tanvia Rahman Abstract Globally Bangladesh is recognized as one of the most vulnerable countries to natural calamities. Along with cyclones and floods; two most discussed and disastrous hazards of the country, landslides have caused the death of nearly 235 people in various informal settlements of Chittagong city and its adjacent urban centers since 1997. In Chittagong city, about 30 percent of the total population lives in the informal settlements where living environments are quite unsatisfactory and they are deprived of access to basic facilities. The rapid growth of urban population of Chittagong city is fuelled by migration of the rural poor to the city, drawn by perceived chances of finding cash employment in the industrial sector and pushed by the limited opportunities in rural areas. On arrival, many are unable to afford proper housing, so turn to live in informal settlements. Ineffective hill management policy at the national level and weak enforcement by the local authorities has created space for growing many informal settlements along landslide prone hill slopes and foothills in Chittagong city. However, there is no institutional arrangement for vulnerability assessment of those informal settlements to landslides. Few researches on landslide focus on hill cutting issues but are unable to explain the role of formal institutional arrangements for reducing vulnerability of the informal settlers. Neither national level landslide risk reduction organizations nor local level organizations and NGOs have planned and executed any proper structural and non-structural mitigation measures other than conventional stabilization (simple retaining walls) of hill toe and relocation respectively. Besides being more affected by landslides the informal settlers have less willingness to adapt risk reduction measures like relocation. Mostly land tenure conflict, trust, socio-economic status (education, income) and powerlessness inhibit these populations in accepting new institutional arrangements. The growing distrust and conflict have tightened pre-landslide institutional arrangements for reducing vulnerability. However, there is usually no standard rule of thumb solution because formulation of mitigation measures is often unique for each site and requires proper technical evolution of causative factors. This study explores different strategic design measures on the basis of assessment of risk, uncertainty, possible consequences, constructability, environmental impacts and costs. It suggests that, while proposing a specific measure, it is best to keep it simple to match the physical characteristics of the hill and the availability of materials. The study tries to contribute in the development of a comprehensive design solution to reduce landslide vulnerability that can be adapted to ensure the settlers immediate safety.Student ID: 11268012 Supervisor Name: A. K. M. Sirajuddin Keyword Disaster management 33
Community-Based Management of Glacial Lake Outburst Flood: A Case Study of Samdingkha Village in Bhutan Thinlay Gyeltshen Abstract Climate change is contributing to increased melting of glaciers and formation of glacial lakes. The threat of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) is posing a serious threat to the lives and livelihoods of the Bhutanese people. The melting of glaciers is leading to alarming volumes of water in downstream glacial lakes. Increased temperature also causes melting of ice-cored moraine dams to the point that the ridges can no longer resist the pressure. The concern is that when the current holding capacity of the lakes reaches a critical threshold, loose glacial debris that act as dams or barriers could fail and lead to flash floods. This phenomenon results in severe adverse impacts on downstream communities. A large number of communities in the Punakha Valley are vulnerable to GLOF from Glacier Lake at sources of Pho Chu. The risk of damage to their agricultural fields, washing away critical infrastructures, killing of cattle and even losing lives has increased in recent years. Further increased glacial melting and GLOF will have devastating effects on the hydropower plants in the country. Hydropower, which accounts for a significant portion of the country’s revenue, involves huge investments in infrastructure and requires sustainable water resources. The study is focused on assessing the Livelihood capital and Vulnerability of people living along the Pho Chu in Samdingkha Village. Field data were collected from Samdingkha village as part of the case study. The information was collected through participatory tools and further followed by DIFDs livelihood analysis guidelines and Expand – Contract Model. To assess the information, literature was reviewed from different journals, books, government policies, meteorological and hydrological data and other unpublished thesis work and articles.Student ID: 11268005 Supervisor Name: Dr. Ainun Nishat Keyword Disaster management 34
Enhancement of Resilience of Coastal Community in Bangladesh through Crop Diversification in Adaptation to Climate Change Impacts Md. Mizanur Rahman Abstract The coastal region of Bangladesh, covering 29,000 km², faces significant challenges due to salinity, affecting 53% of its agricultural lands and leading to poor cropping intensity. The dominant crop, Aman rice, has low yields, exacerbated by climate change projections of rising sea levels. Salinity intrusion and waterlogging hinder agricultural productivity, threatening food security. BRAC's interventions have shown that improved high-yielding rice varieties can significantly increase yields and cropping intensity. Transitioning to these varieties and introducing alternative crops like maize and sunflower, along with sustainable water management practices, are crucial for enhancing resilience and food security in these vulnerable coastal areas. Measures suggested include conserving fresh water for irrigation, increasing crop diversity, and promoting climate-resilient agricultural technologies.Student ID: 11268019 Supervisor Name: Dr. Ainun Nishat Keyword Disaster management; Coastal community; Climate change; Crop diversification 35
Motivating Volunteers: A Case of Cyclone Preparedness Program Volunteers in Bangladesh Md. Ruhul Amin Abstract Cyclone Preparedness Program (CPP) volunteers are increasingly being relied upon to alert people living in the coastal belt of Bangladesh for reducing loss of lives and assets due to cyclones. This volunteerism has continued for the last four decades with several unique challenges specific to availability of adequate equipment and limited resources for the capacity of volunteers to play their roles during cyclones. The purpose of this study is to examine the factors affecting motivation of volunteers. Another aim was to identify the underlying causes and/or hindering factors that discourage or demotivates volunteers and finally to find out factors affecting female volunteers to work as volunteers at the time of disasters. This study uses data from qualitative interviews with 10 volunteer groups, 5 community groups and 16 key informants dealing with CPP to explore volunteer motivations. Besides, quantitative data was also used from an assessment conducted by CPP with support from Save the Children in 2009. Findings revealed that most of the volunteers reported having more than one motive for enrolling them as volunteers. Of the several categories of motivations identified, those relating to altruistic concerns for others and community, social responsibility, religious benefits, reputation and hoping to gain community recognition/ honor were the most frequently mentioned. Volunteers also saw volunteering as an opportunity to gain knowledge and skills and or to put their own skills to good use. A few of the volunteers were hoping to gain financial benefits in the course of their volunteerism. The CPP has a good understanding of volunteers’ motives but a mismatch between organizational goals and volunteer motivations, and inadequate funding meant that volunteers’ most pressing motives were not satisfied. This led to discontentment and resentment among volunteers.Student ID: 07268001 Supervisor Name: Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Keyword Disaster management; Cyclone Preparedness Program 36
2014 Quality of Life Among Survivors from Building Collapse: Case Study of Rana Plaza Md. Yeasir Arafat Alve Abstract The study identifies the quality of life among the survivors of the Rana Plaza building collapse incident at Savar, Dhaka in 2013. It also finds the association between demographic factors (age, sex, income, diagnosis) contributing to the quality of life (Physical, psychological, social and environmental domain) among the survivors. The study was conducted through Cross-sectional study design among 92 Rana Plaza survivors who were selected by purposive comprehensive sampling technique from CRP data based (Savar) by a structured questionnaire with face-to-face interview. World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale- 100 (WHOQOL-100) was used to conduct the study. In the case of, overall quality of life of RANA Plaza survivors, about 42.4% of them have neither poor nor good quality of life; therefore about 19.6% of them have very poor type of quality of life at the period of 10 months incident. There was a significant association with survivors’ type of disabilities, diagnosis, current occupation and their quality of life that means the quality of life is quite better for a person with temporary disabilities rather than a person with permanent disabilities. Those who are in jobs have a better quality of life than unemployed survivors. However, there are no associations with age, sex, educational background, and amount of support with their quality of life. Rehabilitation centers like CRP have bound the survivors with an integration program, treatments, vocational training etc. It might become the prime mover for survivors to improve their quality of life in a ten-month period of time but no one has a very good quality of life. The government and concerned authorities should come forward to take necessary measures to prevent any type of manmade disasters like- building collapse, fire etc. through an appropriate collaboration from top to bottom as well as should develop a sustainable follow-up system after any disaster.Student ID: 13168003 Supervisor Name: Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Keyword Disaster management 37
Impacts of Flood on the Lives and Livelihoods of People in Bangladesh: A Case Study of a Village in Manikganj District Saleh Ur Rahman Abstract Water-induced disasters including flood accounts over 30% of total losses of lives due to natural disasters in Bangladesh. On one hand, spatial variation on geography over short reaches, young and complex geology, and uneven temporal distribution of rainfall contribute significantly to the occurrences of such water induced hazards, Exposure to such hazards and vulnerabilities of people mainly due to poverty, and lack of well preparedness explain the escalating loss of lives and property. The present comprehensive study investigates the impacts of flood on the life and livelihoods of the affected area. The objectives of the study are to assess the situation, the history, the causes, aggravating factors, extent and effects of the flood, to document the hazard and vulnerability, and various capacities of the community; to study the local knowledge, practices and beliefs in the community; to formulate community-based plans for flood mitigation and flood disaster risk reduction. Findings of this phase of study are aimed to be used as input to the second phase when a broader framework of community impacts analysis is conducted. The study found that there are several causes of flood hazards. They are: construction of infrastructure such as roads, culverts. Without assessing the monsoon flood, narrow drainage capacity of the haphazard channel excavation for irrigation due to the absence of proper irrigation canal system, and poor drainage due to dense settlements. Flood is found to be a recurrent phenomenon in the study area. In 2000 and 2004 floods have made some devastating impact on the study area. These flood events were unique in a sense that the floods were mainly due to the heavy precipitation in the Padma belt. as well as productive agriculture land, and livestock. Floods have caused difficulty in mobility, increased risk for living at houses, trends of fear and trauma, and erosion of social assets such as neighborhood, brotherhood and strong bondage of kinship. Likewise, damage of stored grain and spread of water borne diseases are other causes. Increased health hazards, increased investment in treatment and farming, increase in price of seed, less return from animal husbandry, poor performance of social institutions, changes in cropping pattern and reduction in the crop production are immediate impacts of flood on the livelihood of farmers. Flood forecasting, early warning systems and community-based flood management save many lives and properties. People shared with me some of the indicators that forecast flood and those indicators are: position of the cloud in the sky, extent of rainfall in upper catchments and char area, mobility of ants, abnormal fly bite, abnormal crying/voices of animals and birds, intensity of thunderstorm and wind, position of stars, and magnitude of hotness. Strange sounds from river/torrents, muddy smell in the water, rising level of water flow are some indicators perceived as early warning of flood.Student ID: 13168004 Supervisor Name: Mohammad Aminur Rahman Keyword Disaster management 38
2015 Role of ICT in Natural Disaster Management of Bangladesh Abu Ayub Md Hassan Abstract Bangladesh being world's eighth-most populous country is highly vulnerable to recurrent natural hazards due to its location and topography. It regularly experiences floods, droughts, tornadoes and cyclones. Being located in a tectonically active zone, Bangladesh has a long history of seismic tremors as well. During disasters information is as much a necessity as water, food and medicine. ICT is thus among the lifelines which helps to save lives, livelihoods and resources. Responding effectively to disasters demands rapid access to reliable and accurate data. Information sharing and integration of communication is critical which is time demanding as well. Globally there is a growing awareness of the importance of ICT for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). A natural disaster may have discrete origins but its effects propagate and interact in such a way that intensifies the complexity and uncertainties. Thus each type of natural disaster presents a particular context for ICT use. Data need to be acquired and analysed under severe time pressure. ICT can potentially play a pivotal role in DRR. Beside the traditional ICT media (radio, television, etc); rapid advancement in ICT in the form of Internet, GIS, Remote Sensing and satellite-based communication can help a great deal in planning and implementation of DRR. These technologies are playing a major role in designing early warning systems, catalysing the process of preparedness, response and mitigation. Bangladesh ICT Policy 2009 stated to protect citizens from natural disasters through ICT based disaster warning and management technologies. DRR through the use of ICT is among the objectives set under the ICT Policy. ICT has played a significant role in bringing a paradigm shift in disaster management from conventional response and relief practice to a more comprehensive risk reduction culture in Bangladesh. However, for effective DRR an integrated communication system is indispensable. Besides, there is an eminence of obstacles for ICT and emergency communication when a natural hazard strikes Bangladesh. Although a good ICT infrastructure is in place in Bangladesh, scopes exist in diversifying ICT applications used to enhance integrated information management for minimizing hazard specific risks in a timely manner.Student ID: 14168008 Supervisor Name: Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Keyword Disaster management; ICT; Natural Disaster 39
Building Resilient Communities through Architectural Interventions: Towards a Sustainable Future Samara Hamid Abstract The global context and the climate are changing rapidly and this poses a major threat to the population and their habitat to cope with the changing dynamics of the surroundings. Hence, the habitat that houses entire communities that in turn build entire nations need to be structured in a safe and robust manner that can easily adapt to adversity. These solutions can be achieved through architectural designs that are affordable, safe, socially /environmentally conscious, socio-culturally appropriate. This paper hence, highlights the architects as professionals who are not only the namesake for mainstream designs but are most vital components in the preparedness and reconstruction phases of the DM cycle capable of achieving sustainability and resilience through interventions. The concept of architects and architectural interventions is seldom highlighted or appreciated in the disaster management cycle. Therefore, the thesis in its first chapter gradually unveils the concept of the disaster management cycle and its link to approaches that focus mainly on interventions/solutions that are architecturally related to achieve sustainability. The subsequent chapter clarifies the link between DM and architecture even further by show- casing examples of countries from all over the world that have been affected by destructive natural calamities and have benefitted through innovative designs. The case-studies were seen through the lens of an architect and the process of reconstruction of each example was outlined for different types of hazard. In doing so, the process revealed the different kinds of architectural interventions or creative solutions in detail that carry the potential of becoming catalysts for a sustainable future. In the concluding chapter, the process was further analyzed for pros and cons and in this way, ideas were presented as to how the projects or solutions can work more effectively and how it can be further improved. The essence of the thesis is to carry forward the concept of architectural innovations and its effectiveness in the DM system so that it can be adopted sooner to see a much more improved and “built back better” world in the approaching times of impending disasters.Student ID: 14168003 Supervisor Name: Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Keyword Architecture 40
Reducing Community Risk Through Disaster Resilient Housing in Bangladesh Saira Enam Abstract Bangladesh is a multi-hazardous and disaster-prone country due to its geographic location and socio-economic condition of the people. Every year natural disasters disrupt the lives of people in some parts of the country. The housing sector is mostly damaged due to disasters on a regular basis and is the cause of most economic losses of the country. Houses and settlements are facing greater challenges triggered by natural hazards and uncontrolled urbanization in Bangladesh. Till date, there seems to be a lack of overall housing solutions for building resilient rural structures that address future disaster risks posed to housing in the hazard exposed areas. Inappropriate housing solutions together with poorly constructed houses are considered as one of the main sources of risks to disasters. Hazards in nature do not constitute disaster risk, however, the underlying vulnerabilities to hazards and external drivers construct disaster risk and resulting losses. These vulnerability factors are not addressed. The housing sector of the country tends to focus more on the physical improvements with limited attention to other aspects such as the social and administrative issues. From literature review in the context of Bangladesh, five significant findings have been considered that would ensure a resilient housing system; (i) local knowledge and construction practice to develop long term disaster resilient housing, (ii) improving local awareness and supporting local economy to raise resilience, (iii) improving communication between the local masons and the professional expertise, (iv) application of planning codes and construction regulation and (v) enhancing the local governance. This paper addresses such factors that may generate several policy implications for local authority to issue appropriate legal frameworks and supportive programs in order to improve local construction and to build safer and more resilient communities. Furthermore, it also addresses some approaches that may be crucial for disaster risk reduction which can be achieved through appropriate housing practices in Bangladesh.Student ID: 14168009 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Architecture; Community risk 41
Application of Scientific and Indigenous Knowledge for Flood Management in Northwest Bangladesh Sohel Ahmmed Abstract The present study tries to identify the Indigenous practices of the rural communities. It also focuses on assessing their economic condition in relation to livelihood practices. Local people Participation in the research process has been ensured by Focus Group Discussion, Informal Interview. Most of the people don’t have any scientific knowledge to cope with floods. The people of Kurigram district pass their life to cultivated land. Domestic animals, grazing land and wet land are the major natural resources. The peoples of the rural area face flood & river bank erosion almost every year. They have some traditional knowledge by which they are able to cope up with this situation. In my study I tried to find out the existing indigenous knowledge that has been practiced by the people for anticipating floods and coping mechanisms during flood situations. The project looks at how communities can bring together their own indigenous knowledge and experiences, which might include birds, insects or plants, in order to support local adaptation during floods. I also tried to find out the practices regarding house, agriculture, and health. Most of the rural people have no academic knowledge but they are living with flood by using their own mechanism for many years in this area. As a result, they have a very good capacity which we call indigenous knowledge. With this they are able to reduce vulnerabilities. The thesis then identifies why the region is known for its seasonal food insecurity (Monga) and reason behind the high incidence of poverty. This thesis discussed that both scientific and their own local knowledge is used properly to inform policy and decision-making at all levels. This thesis emphasizes the integration of scientific and indigenous knowledge for flood management. Finally, I recommended some of my findings of Kurigram district for further study.Student ID: 14168004 Supervisor Name: Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Keyword Architecture; Flood management 42
Youth Volunteers as Change Agents in Disaster Response Tushar Quader Haq Abstract When disaster strikes the local youth are the first ones to respond. Volunteerism has been present since the beginning of human history. The youth constitute one third of the total population in Bangladesh. For this important portion of the population, determination of national outlook is undeniable. This study looks into the work of BDRCS youth volunteers as a case of youth volunteers in disaster management. The purpose is to find the major factors that enable them to perform best as well as the barriers that hinder their work. The study used primary data through group interviews with BDRCS volunteers in Dhaka city and Manikganj district and key informant interviews and one case story. Findings from the study shows most youth joined in the volunteer program on their own. They prefer search and rescue work and are proud to be BDRCS volunteers. They are concerned about personal safety, quality and appropriate training, coordination, wrong attitude, gender inequality and media coverage. People engaging in similar acts may have different underlying motivations for doing so. Findings from the study shows that mostly, the BDRCS volunteers are motivated based on their values which are welfare of others or unselfishness. Other underlying motives include opportunity to learn, career prospects, social pressure, to reduce feelings of guilt and enhance one ‘s self-esteem. Activities for taking forward their work includes ensuring quality and appropriate training and appropriate gears and tools for search and rescue work, awareness raising, recognition and visibility of their work. Psychosocial counseling is important after rescue operations, as it is important to heal the psychological wounds after an emergency or a critical event. The study suggests involving volunteers in all stages of the disaster management planning process. It is a matter of combined responsibility that volunteers are recognized for their contributions and their needs are ensured for them to accomplish their efforts successfully.Student ID: 414168005 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Architecture; Youth Volunteer 43
Green Water Defense as Flood Mitigation Approach for Dhaka District Deeba Farzana Moumita Abstract Dhaka is prone to flood hazard due to its location, topology, climate and proximity to rivers. The main objectives of this study are to delineate the flood extent, find out the flood duration during monsoon, identify the change in land use and find out mitigation measures to reduce the impact of flood hazard in Dhaka. In this report, the flood types, causes of flood, flood history and flood control, and flood mitigation measures for Dhaka district are discussed. The study is based on review of literature, analysis of satellite images and water levels, and interviewing of some key informants. Due to its location, Dhaka is found to be susceptible to both fluvial and pluvial types of flooding. Drainage congestion is another major problem in Dhaka during the monsoon due to unplanned rapid urbanization, poor drainage system and improper maintenance of sewerage and drainage system. At present, Dhaka does not have any integrated long term flood risk management plan. A multi-scale, delta perspective flood mitigation focus, which involves long term adaptive management, is not yet in place. Green water defense, which is an adaptive management approach for delta regions, can be one of the best flood mitigation approaches, for Dhaka, both in city and district scales.Student ID: 14168010 Supervisor Name: Dr. M. Shahjahan Mondal Keyword Architecture; Flood mitigation approach; Green water defense 44
Reduction of Fire Hazard Risk in RMG Factories in Bangladesh through Design and Planning Approaches Md. Moniruzzaman Abstract To reduce the fire hazard in RMG we should look into the issue in a holistic approach both from planning and design point of view. Because a well-designed factory will not be able to ensure the ultimate fire safety in RMG of Bangladesh. We need to consider the planning approach accordingly. Our survey and analysis represented that the factories in the well planned and designed EPZ, Export Processing Zone have that capacity to reduce the fire hazard risk into that zone and they have very few records of fire hazard whereas the factories of non-EPZ has the devastating hazard record even if the factory was properly designed. The Ha-meem factory fire record is the example in this regard. As the factory was situated in the Non-Export Processing Zone it had that limitation for fire vehicle access from the nearest fire station (about 6km far from the factory and the travel time is 11 to 13 minutes to reach to the factory by car) it took 25 minutes to reach the location due to traffic jam, narrow and unplanned road network. Thus, the emergency response time was increased. In some cases, response time increased up one to two hours to reach the location. Moreover; due to lack of standard fire separation distance between the adjacent building and community, fire spread rapidly and increased causality. According to statistics there are only 101 RMG factories situated in the DEPZ whereas we have 1654 factories located in the non-export processing zone and most of these factories are developed in unplanned ways into the commercial and residential area. Most of them do not have the proper facilities, equipment & fire safety practice. This paper has that suggestion to reduce the fire hazard in unplanned and non-designed factories through planning and designing approach. Although it is not possible to ensure the standard planning with same facilities like EPZ factories but it will be possible to improve the existing safety conditions and practice to ensure more safety for the millions of poor workers.Student ID: 14168006 Supervisor Name: Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Keyword Disaster Management; RMG 45
Analysis of Socio-Economic Condition of Environmental Refugees in Dhaka Riazul Islam Thakur Abstract Bangladesh and natural disasters are closely related to each other because of the geographical location of it. Natural disasters, people affected by these disasters and migration of these people to urban areas or mega cities are not unknown to the country. Environmental degradation and natural disasters play a contributing role in affecting population movement. People are forced to move from rural to urban areas. Some experts declare that the number of incidents that cause people to leave their houses and fields due to natural disasters is increasing rapidly and they perceive this as a serious global issue. The work explores the subject of environmental refugees as a significant group of migrants, includes definition of the term, explanation of main reasons for fleeing the people from their habitats and the socio-economic condition of the environmental refugees before and after the migration. There is a huge difference between their present and previous socio- economic conditions. Along with their migration, so many things happen such as difficulties in the local economy and population pressure on the city. This research is an attempt to find out the comparison between the previous and present socio-economic conditions of the environmental refuges and to suggest some guidelines to control the migration and to improve their conditions.Student ID: 08268024 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Environmental Refugees 46
2016 Thunderstorm and Disaster Management in Bangladesh Md. Moshfaqur Rahman Abstract This study will help to inform the existing parameter on Thunderstorm. The available parameters will introduce limitations & needed future study. This way we will know the recent scenario of thunderstorms, especially the technical aspect as much as possible from this effort. Then come to set it in disaster management. The disaster management set by the United Nations & Intl. Federation of Red Cross and Crescent. This study starts when a thunderstorm was not a disaster but in completing it becomes one by the Bangladesh Government, with the help of both institutes. This study is focused on international management to set disaster management; I don’t include the Bangladesh matter.Student ID: 15168005 Supervisor Name: Dr. Abdul Baqee & Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Thunderstorm; Disaster management 47
Farmers Adjustments to Rice Production in Response to Flood Hazard in Haor Basin Areas of Bangladesh Jakia Quamrun Nahar Abstract The study was conducted in the Dingapota Haor of Mohangonj upazila under Netrokona district and it has been selected as the study area. The boro rice growers of Dingapota Haor constituted the population of the study. An updated list of 1032 boro rice growers from the selected Haor area was collected from Upazila Agricultural Offices of this locality. Around 10% of the populations were randomly selected as the sample of the study by using a random sampling method. Thus, 103 boro rice growers constituted the sample of the study. A well-structured interview schedule was developed based on objectives for collecting information. The researcher herself collected data through personal contact. The independent variables were: age, level of education, family size, farm size, annual income, organizational participation, communication exposure and agricultural knowledge. The dependent variable of this study was the farmers' adjustments to rice production in response to flood hazard in Haor basin areas of Bangladesh. Data collection was started on 07 April, 2016 and completed on 26 April, 2016. Among the respondents, rice growers in Haor basin area in adjustment of flood hazard, the highest 55.34 percent rice growers belong to the group of lowest adjustment compared to 37.86 percent in moderate adjustment, whereas the lowest 6.80 percent rice growers belong to the group of high adjustment in response to flood hazard in Haor basin area. Pearson Product Moment Correlation Co-efficient between dependent and independent variables revealed that age, level of education, farm size, organizational participation, communication exposure and agricultural knowledge had significant positive relationships with farmers’ adjustments to rice production in response to flood hazard in the Haor basin area. Annual income had non- significant positive relationships, while family size had a significant negative relationship with farmers’ adjustments to rice production in response to flood hazard in the Haor basin area under the present study.Student ID: : 15168002 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Disaster management; Flood hazard; Haor basin area 48
Assessing Architect's Role in Seismic Evaluation and Risk Mitigation Roxana Naureen Huq Abstract Dhaka City having a faster urbanization has an increasing threat of hazard as the risk is more complex and complicated than the rural area due to its increased population in a concentrated area and competitive economic activities. Due to the complexity of the urban dynamics earthquake vulnerability assessment to plan measures for effective mitigation is mandatory. The morphology of Dhaka City has emerged from the South of the city towards the northern part. Hence, three selected wards are chosen according to the morphological growth of the Dhaka City towards the northern region. Dhaka city is highly susceptible to earthquakes and lack of awareness of built forms without maintaining any codes and guidelines with the help of poor institutional efficiency is degrading the current situation. In this study three procedures are implemented to assess the vulnerability of three selected wards of Dhaka City Corporation. The first procedure involves the vulnerability assessment report of the selected wards. The wards are segregated into cluster level and with the help of Rapid Visual Screening and Turkish Method a methodology is adopted and assessed and with the help of flowcharts, the results are illustrated. Secondly a questionnaire survey is developed to understand and question the awareness and consciousness, interest and awareness of the architect’s practicing architecture in Bangladesh. Finally, the implications of the results have guided the applications of architecture-based issues in seismic design for the use of architects. Three individual buildings from the three selected wards are taken to evaluate the attributes and elements that actually influence the earthquake vulnerability of the building. Overall, it is seen that even though the building in Chawkbazar is the most vulnerable, the other two buildings of Dhanmondi and Banani even though designed by architects and structural engineers is comparatively less vulnerable but has huge gaps in designing according to the seismic issues. Further research is recommended to assess the building vulnerability by monitoring the building codes while designing and constructing a building by the architects and structural engineers.Student ID: : 15168003 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Disaster management; Seismic evaluation; Risk mitigation 49
A Study on Earthquake Preparedness in Schools in Dhaka North City Corporation Nafisa Ziauddin Abstract Bangladesh is one of the most populous and disaster-prone countries in the world. Bangladesh is exposed to floods and cyclones, and the risk of other disasters such as drought, earthquakes, and tornados is increasing. The recent occurrences of earthquakes in the region have brought to stark light the need for preparedness for earthquakes in various sectors in the country. Children are a dynamic and powerful force of change and form the demographic dividend and future of a country. The impact of a disaster especially like an earthquake has a profound impact on the psyche of the whole generation. While children are at homes with their families, there is a familiar support and security that is available to them. It is imperative that something similar is available to them while they are in school. The research aims to explore the preparedness measures adapted by the schools in response to earthquakes and to review the policy on disaster preparedness in schools in Bangladesh. The study also aims to understand the perception of stakeholders on their expectation of earthquake preparedness in schools. An assessment of Schools, students and guardians was conducted by visiting the schools and organizing completion of questionnaires by the respondents. The findings were complemented by secondary data collection and interviews with other stakeholders (government, NGOs, donors, experts etc). While there is momentum in the sphere of earthquake preparedness in the country, there is room for improvement in awareness raising and training on preparedness for schools. A section of schools are not under the purview of Government or any other body for implementation of such measures. A streamlined coordinated preparedness and awareness raising program for earthquake preparedness in school is the need of the hour. Parents/guardians, students should discuss proactively with school authorities to ensure preparedness measures are implemented and in place.Student ID: : 15168006 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Disaster management; Earthquake 50
Impact of Cash Based Interventions in Livelihood Recovery of Waterlogging Affected Community in Satkhira District Tapan Kumar Chakraborty Abstract The southwestern coastal region of Bangladesh has been facing severe waterlogging problems since the early 1980s. The construction of polders disrupted the natural drainage system, blocking effective water flow and causing prolonged inundation in many areas. The situation worsened significantly after 2011 due to a combination of natural and human- induced factors. By 2013, approximately 28 percent of the land area in the affected upazilas remained waterlogged for more than eight months each year. This long-term inundation severely restricted agricultural production, resulting in substantial economic losses for local households. The most affected groups were landless day laborers, small farmers, and marginal farmers who depended heavily on agriculture for their livelihoods. Waterlogging reduced employment opportunities and agricultural productivity, pushing many households into chronic food insecurity. To survive, affected families adopted negative coping strategies. In response, international NGOs and United Nations agencies initiated humanitarian assistance programs from 2012 onward. As local markets remained functional, CBIs were implemented to address immediate food security needs and support livelihood recovery. By December 2015, a total of 44,210 vulnerable households across three districts had received approximately BDT 465.9 million through these interventions. This study evaluates the effectiveness of CBIs in restoring livelihoods and enhancing resilience to waterlogging and flood-related impacts. Seven indicators were used to assess recovery: changes in occupation and livelihood strategies, diversification of income sources, recovery of household assets, growth in total asset value, reduction in debt burden, increase in monthly income, and improvement of community infrastructure. The findings indicate that CBIs played a significant role in livelihood recovery. Households diversified their income sources, with the number of primary occupations increasing from four before waterlogging to eight by 2016. All surveyed households had at least two livelihood options, while 44 percent had three. Beneficiaries recovered most productive assets except cultivable land, and livestock ownership exceeded pre-waterlogging levels. Average household asset value increased to BDT 123,442, exceeding the 2010 level by BDT 32,094. Average debt declined from BDT 13,917 to BDT 7,966, while monthly income increased by approximately BDT 2,800. Overall, the study concludes that CBIs were highly effective in supporting livelihood recovery, strengthening household resilience, and reducing future waterlogging risks through the rehabilitation of community infrastructure and improved local functionality.Student ID: : 15168001 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Waterlogging; Disaster management 51
Assessment of Lessons Learned in Rana Plaza Disaster Mahadi Hasan Shahid Abstract Rana Plaza collapse is one of the major man-made disasters in the history of Bangladesh. In this disaster we lost 1200 hundred people. It was one of the worst industrial (garments) accidents in the world. After this disaster the government found many vulnerable and risky buildings and also took serious steps. But not enough to prevent such types of massive disaster. After this disaster, the government, foreign partners (buyers), various types of stakeholders, INGO and NGO have taken many steps to stop such types of massive disaster. The government makes some policy for a safe and work friendly environment for workers but still not implemented properly. For my research I found some core things that are mainly responsible for this type of disaster such as failure of government, political dimension of the crisis, competitive pursuit of globalization, injustice of global economic order. but now scenarios are changed. The government takes multi-disciplinary action and coordination between labor and owner and also introduced some essential Laws like trade union, worker salary scales and other facilities. The government gives more power to the labor ministry to observe those situations properly. My outcome of this research paper in the Rana Plaza victims rehabilitating process, reemployment process, building safety and security process, responsible organizations, investigation report and undertaking legal action against Rana Plaza.Student ID: : 15168007 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Disaster management; Rana Plaza disaster 52
2017 Cyclone Warning in Bangladesh and Preparedness Effort Maliha Ferdous Abstract Historically the impact of cyclones on Bangladesh has been catastrophic, sometimes killing hundreds of thousands of people. Usually, the country faces the threat of cyclones on a yearly basis but the strength and ferocity of these cyclones are being further escalated with the increased threats of climate change with warming sea water and rising sea levels in the Bay of Bengal. Climate change may increase the frequency and will cause more damage with the rising sea level including inundation of newer areas affecting larger coastal communities for example, Cyclone Roanu in May 2016 mainly impacted six coastal districts of Bangladesh but affected more than 1.3 million people and displaced 200,000 even though the storm was considered to be a low to medium strength. Since the 1970s, the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) and the Government of Bangladesh (GoB) have been jointly managing a Cyclone Preparedness Program (CPP) based on a wireless communication and network of over 50,000 volunteers. This program has been globally acknowledged for its efforts in reducing the number of deaths during the past major cyclone events and is seen as the flagship program of BDRCS. Although early warning messages issued by the BMD and CPP have saved several lives over the decades – which was reflected in the Cyclone Mohasen and tropical Cyclone Mora where CPP and BDRCS volunteers together managed to evacuate thousands of vulnerable people to safe shelter – however, there is still a need of signaling system which can be more relevant for the residing population at the coasts of Bangladesh. The main problems identified on the existing early warning system are that the language it uses to circulate the warning messages is official and is not comprehensible for most of the people. Hence, people don’t pay attention to that since they don’t understand the technical information. In many cases access to early warning messages is also a problem as sometimes the wireless communication is out of order. There were a number of times when the warnings were false, so people don’t have full trust on that as well. A study found that the forecasts produced by BMD are not reliable for longer than 12 hours. Another analysis also says that the early warning signals that Cyclone Preparedness Program (CPP) use is mostly derived from the signals used for maritime and river ports issued by the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD). However, in the past 50 years, Bangladesh has significantly reduced cyclone related deaths. Therefore, it is evident that the CCP is effective to a certain extent but still can be made to reach a higher potential.Student ID: 13168008 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Disaster management 53
A Gender Perspective of Climate Change and Disaster Management Practices of a Cyclone Affected Coastal Community Tahera Tabassum Abstract Men and women are, of course, not homogenous groups, and their experiences, lifestyles, and geographic and socioeconomic conditions shape their worldviews and proclivities; cognizance of these types of tendencies can be powerful knowledge when innovating solutions. Climate change is a threat that is both globally dispersed and intensely localized. It is a global challenge that burdens all of humanity, but not equally. The world’s poor, the majority of whom are women, are encumbered disproportionately. In 2009, the United Nations Population Fund took a deep look at the relationship between women and climate change in its annual report, concluding that women “are among the most vulnerable to climate change, partly because in many countries, they make up the larger share of the agricultural work force and partly because they tend to have access to fewer income- earning opportunities.” Moreover, the brunt of housework and family-care often falls on women, limiting their ability to quickly adapt to extreme and sudden weather-related disasters — statistically, the report said, natural disasters tend to kill more women than men. The distinct impacts of climate change on men and women are exacerbated in settings that are also affected by violent conflict, political instability, and economic strife. As the world struggles to grapple with rapid onset disasters as well as respond to slower degradation caused by climate change, it is critical to ensure that the plight of women is firmly on the agenda of concerns, and that women – from different backgrounds – are able to lead in negotiations and participate in the design and implementation of programs. Climate change efforts provide an important opportunity to engage women as active agents of resilience building rather than passive recipients of adaptation support. Women are disproportionately vulnerable to the impacts of extreme events, and this must be addressed when supporting communities’ ability to adapt. Perhaps more importantly, however, climate change provides an opportunity for positive social transformation on gender equity. This research addresses the vital role of Women empowerment for building Climate resilient communities with the help of a case study carried out in a coastal village in BangladeshStudent ID: : 11268004 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Purbo-Kaikhali; Climate change; Disaster management; Cyclone; Coastal village; Gender discrimination 54
Cash in Emergency: A Synthesis of Bangladesh Red Crescent Society Experience and Learning Farook Abstract Bangladesh faces recurrent flooding, landslides, and cyclones. The Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS), established in 1973, plays a significant role in providing emergency relief. Since 2007, following Cyclone SIDR, BDRCS has increasingly employed cash transfer programming (CTP) alongside traditional aid, recognizing its effectiveness in meeting various needs. Cash-based responses, including cash grants and vouchers, are tools to support basic needs, shelter, and livelihood reconstruction. While debates continue over the appropriateness of cash transfers, their use depends on market conditions and specific contexts. BDRCS aims to enhance its capacity for implementing cash responses promptly after disasters, distinguishing itself from other organizations that deploy CTP later. Collaboration with other humanitarian bodies, ongoing dialogue with donors, and robust assessments of needs and risks are vital for effective cash interventions in emergencies.Student ID: : 13168013 Supervisor Name: Dr. A H M Abdul Baqee Keyword Bangladesh Red Crescent Society 55
Drinking Water Collection System in Cyclone Affected Coastal Village of Bangladesh Afsana Latif Abstract The implications of Cyclone in Bangladesh are the sea level rising, changes of climate patterns, man-made alteration of natural settings and main salinity in river water is increasing rapidly in the community of southern Bangladesh. After the cyclone SIDR and AILA surface water and also ground water on the southern side of Bangladesh became salty. People were also suffering from drinking water during the year. The most important factor is the lack of the collecting technique for drinking water. In my research, I tried to find out the collecting technique to develop, which can help in gathering drinking water consistently, also better understanding of the process of salinization of drinking water resources in Bangladesh. All the data from field study was being collected in two different unions. One was the SUTARKHALI union and the other was the TILDHANGA union. So that we can actually understand the effects of cyclone damages and suffer from the shortage of drinking and safe water. As research methods, both secondary and primary sources were applied. The groups targeted to be interviewed were community people in the coastal community, officials of non-governmental and governmental organizations. Efficient aspects for lack of drinking water are salinity, shrimp farming, and arsenic. In water, salinity is making the lives of people miserable. They have social, economic or physical consciences. There is some traditional strategy regarding the collection system of drinking water. This knowledge is based on common sense and experience, but does not have any engineering basis. During the year they can collect the water from rain water, saline water and some point in a dew drop. In some process, they can use this water for drinking. This thesis discussed a device for collecting drinking water called PANI [Purified Aqua for Numerous individuals which is based on regular knowledge and through some technology. Hopefully, these are helping for collecting drinking water throughout the year with salinity input, also economically affordable, easy accessibility, maximum use, portability and durability for the affected community of southern Bangladesh.Student ID: : 11268006 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Cyclone; PANI; Drinking water; Coastal village 56
Localization of Aid – A Case of Bangladesh Flood 2017 Shofiul Alam Abstract Today, only a small fraction of funding is given directly to local actors. An estimate from the UN OCHA FTS dataset indicates local and national responders received only 2% of the humanitarian funding globally. Local and national NGOs combined are the critical actors in shifting the center of gravity for humanitarian action. In this view this study aims to know about the types of partnership, best practices and shortfalls in terms of coordination among local / national NGOs and INGOs within the framework of localization. Bangladesh is one of the most vulnerable countries to natural disasters such as floods and cyclones and has experienced a great proliferation of civil society organizations widely known as NGOs since its independence. Recently it has been also introduced to Start Fund, which is notable among the limited global and national pooled fund led by NGOs for small/medium disasters for its immense speed with a keen interest on localization. But as funding cannot be a sole measure of progress on localization and that other aspects are also critical, including increasing the quality of funding, building partnerships that are more equitable and strengthening national capacities, the study has adopted a seven-dimension framework based on existing literature. The study adopted a mixed data collection technique and information was gathered administering a semi-structured questionnaire among the Start Funded agencies. This study provided an opportunity to better understand how the Start Fund members operate in this setting, and how current practices, which are, partially but not only, shaped by Start Fund policies and procedures, relate to "localization". It was found that, though N/LNGOs account for the major portion of the programmatic cost, they are unable to access sufficient management or operational costs. This is because there is little awareness about who is funding the Start Fund and how the Start Fund functions. This as a result impacts the quality of partnership by causing lack of information sharing, collaboration etc. It can be recommended that appropriate funds should be allocated for staff salaries in the budget so it does not lead to brain drain during Start Funded response. There is also a need to safeguard a window of funding for NNGOs, as they will not always be able to compete for funding on the same terms as INGOs, in formats, with a jargon and a mindset that over decades have been honed by the latter. The inclusive approach to set up the new fund (i.e. Start Fund Bangladesh) will be crucial if it is to have national ownership, with a percentage of its budget going to national actors by 2020, and major reduction in intermediation.Student ID: : 13168006 Supervisor Name: Dr A H M Abdul Baquee Keyword Bangladesh Flood 57
Issues and challenges of Cyclone Preparedness Program (CPP) Volunteers: The Case of CPP, Dacope, Khulna Md. Harun-or-Rashid Khan Abstract CPP is an organization through which Bangladesh gets appreciation from all countries of the world. Bangladesh is proud of CPP. Many countries now want to follow the system of CPP. It is such a dedicated team they work even if they lose their life. So, I chose to prepare an assignment about CPP. CPP is a mechanism which relies on technical skills and volunteer’s commitment for ensuring that all potential victims of an approaching cyclone are given sufficient warning to 11 million coastal people so as to enable them to move to safe- sites including cyclone shelters and buildings. The system starts with the collection of meteorological data from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD), which issues bulletins including the designated warning signals of an approaching cyclone. The bulletins are transmitted to the 6 zonal offices and the 30 upazila level offices (sub-district) over HF radio. The upazila office in turn passes it to unions and lower levels through VHF radios. The union team leaders then conduct the unit team leaders immediately. The unit team leaders with his volunteers spread out in the villages and disseminate cyclone warning signals almost door to door using megaphones, hand sirens and public address systems. This study was undertaken with the aim to understand the current level of knowledge, capacity and functionality of Union Disaster Management Committees (UDMC) and CPP. The evaluation was done to provide insights in how to make UDMCs and CPP fully operational and proactive to work together as in Standing Orders on Disaster. Based on identified functionality gaps the study concludes that the capacity of UDMCs and CPP could be improved through capacity building and updating DM plans and contingency plans, practical support for organizing volunteers, investment in structural risk reduction measures in the most vulnerable areas and strengthened monitoring mechanisms.Student ID: : 16168001 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Cyclone Preparedness Programme; Bangladesh Meteorological Department; Union Disaster Management Committees; Cyclone 58
Response in Mass Casualty Incidents: Survival of Selected Tertiary Level Hospital in Bangladesh A. K. M. Mashiul Munir Abstract An effective and immediate response from hospital personnel is critical to meet the needs of affected populations at the time of a disaster. Hospitals need to develop, practice and continuously update an effective disaster/emergency medical response plan. Communities and impacted regions cannot depend on immediate medical and humanitarian aid from other outside sources to meet medical care needs during the first three to five days following a mass casualty incident. How hospitals in disaster-prone countries like Bangladesh can improve their medical response is discussed. To find out the resilience of a tertiary level hospital in Bangladesh to combat mass casualty incidents, Kurmitola General Hospital was selected and study was carried out. This study was a cross-sectional questionnaire survey. The administrator, engineers and in charge of the Emergency & Casualty department were interviewed. The hospital was visited to verify the selected questionnaire response by a checklist. Among all the tertiary level hospitals “Kurmitola General Hospital” was selected. It is the most recently constructed tertiary level general hospital in Bangladesh. So, it is expected that disaster survival and disaster support elements and structures are well formulated in this hospital. This study was conducted from January 2017 to September 2017. The WHO guideline was followed to find out the resilience of Kurmitola General Hospital. Hospital Safety Index (HSI) for this hospital was included with 162 items, which included structural, non-structural and functional capacity. Hospital safety was classified into three safety classes: low (≤34.0), average (34.01 -- 66.0) and high (>66.0). Structural safety of this hospital was 100%, nonstructural safety was rated as 78%. But functional safety which included the managerial aspects was 37% only. Which demands more emphasis to be given on hospital disaster planning, training of personnel and coordination with other stakeholders. The same type of survey for all the tertiary level hospitals of Bangladesh and forwarding a consolidated report to the competent authority for further planning is recommended.Student ID: : 16168004 Supervisor Name: Dr. A. H. M. Abdul Baqee Keyword Kurmitola General Hospital; Hospital community; MCI; Casualty incidents 59
Climate Change and Food Security in Northern Bangladesh: Experience of RDRS in Implementing Stress Tolerant Rice Joynub Nabila Obayed Abstract Nowadays climate change has become a big issue worldwide. Every country and each person is concerned about climate change. It is a fear to face mega disasters in future due to climate change and that is why almost all the countries are taking mitigation actions and plans to fight and survive the severity of disasters. In Bangladesh, the Government, NGOs and other different types of organizations are taking various initiatives to face the current and future threats of climate change. In the course of changing climate, the food security issue is a very important aspect to deal with. Whatever the disaster occurs, to keep people alive, food should be ensured first and foremost because without food people cannot live. As a mitigation option for climate change and Disaster Risk Reduction food security should be the first condition. The objective of this paper is to find out the implementation and impact of Stress Tolerant Rice in 8 districts of Rangpur Division within the working area of RDRS Bangladesh to ensure food security as a mitigation option for climate change. In this paper two varieties of stress tolerant rice will be discussed which are Flood Tolerant Rice and Draught Tolerant Rice. The field area for this research will be within working areas of RDRS Bangladesh; Lalmonithat, Kurigram, Dinajpur Panchagarh, Thakurgaon, Rangpur, Nilphamari and Gaibandha of Rangpur Division. All the data for this paper has been collected from Field visits in RDRS working areas, reports and case studies collected from related staff, books and internet.Student ID: : 16168005 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Mizanur Rahman Keyword Climate change; Food security; Disaster Risk Reduction food security; Flood Tolerant Rice; Draught Tolerant Rice 60
The Roles of Real Estate Developer Companies in Disaster Management in Dhaka City Subrin Khan Abstract Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, is one of the populous megacities in the world. As the growth of urban population is taking place at an exceptionally rapid rate, the landscape of the city is forced for rapid urbanization to keep pace with rapid increase in population. Rapid and haphazard urbanization is creating a lot of environmental and physical hazards. Dhaka is already exposed to natural hazards such as flood and earthquake, but interventions of some government agencies such as RAJUK and private housing companies are damaging the environment in many ways. Apartment building construction introduced by private Real Estate Developer companies have not only contributed to the national economy but at the same time due to lack of sustainable issues in their building policy, Dhaka is now under threat to many men made hazards. Through this research it is evident that these developer companies are more focused towards making profits rather than achieving sustainability. The residents of the apartment buildings have shown much concern for their safety in their building as well as in the neighborhood for which many suggestions and problems have been brought forward by them which they prefer should be addressed by the developer companies in near future for sustainable and healthy growth of Dhaka city. Some suggestions on Bangladesh National Building Code have been addressed for achieving sustainability and disaster management for Dhaka cityStudent ID: : 16168008 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Real Estate Developer Companies; Disaster management; Dhaka city 61
Existing Volunteerism in Response and Recovery on Disaster Management in Bangladesh Muhammad Ferdaus Abstract Community participation is the most effective element to achieving sustainability in dealing with natural disaster risks. As a disaster-prone country Bangladesh is affected by different types of natural hazards like tropical cyclones, tidal bores, floods, tornados, river bank erosions, earthquakes etc. almost every year and destroy many lives and resources of people. It is surrounded by thousands of rivers, in the North the Himalayan range and in the South the Bay of Bengal creates harsh weather especially for a large number of poor people live in the southern part of Bangladesh making them as common victim of natural calamities, sometimes the vulnerability is so miserable that they must resettle themselves in the newly accreted land. For sustainable development, the negative impacts of these natural hazards must be minimized that affect the socio-economic condition. The prevention of occurrence of natural disasters influenced by natural causes may be impossible but it can be reduced by proper planning, management and human collective participation. From realization of this reality, the government of Bangladesh has adopted disaster management plans and programs for the mitigation of disaster and its possible adverse impacts. This study analyzes the approaches to disaster management by grassroots community participation in Bangladesh based on literature review.Student ID: : 16168003 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Disaster management; Sustainable development; Natural disaster; Community participation; Mitigation 62
2018 Volunteerism in Disaster Management: Case of Bangladesh Aminul Kawser Khan Abstract Volunteering is generally considered as an altruistic activity and is intended to promote good or improve human quality of life. In return, this activity produces a feeling of self-worth and respect; however, there is no financial gain. Volunteering is also renowned for skill development, socialization, and fun. Volunteering is defined as any activity that involves spending time, unpaid, doing something that aims to benefit the environment or someone (individuals or groups) other than, or in addition to, and close relatives. Central to this definition is the fact that volunteering must be a choice freely made by everyone. This can include formal activity undertaken through public, private and voluntary organizations as well as informal community participation. Volunteerism engages people in tackling disaster preparedness and response challenges. It transforms the pace and nature of development. It benefits communities and the country at large. It strengthens trust, solidarity and reciprocity of an individual among people. It creates opportunities for participation. In Bangladesh, the idea or the initial starting phase of an organization or movement is done in a wholesome volunteer way, but it is very weak in documentation/institutionalization, due to this reason it is challenging to keep the voluntary initiative sustainable. For centuries volunteerism has evolved in a natural manner, shifting and changing shape in response to other shifts in culture, society, and notions of social responsibility. Over time, volunteerism had become deeply entrenched in life. Now it is the time to study volunteerism methodically. The nature of volunteering has always been shifting. At one point it was almost exclusively unorganized. People were just helping their neighbors and family members as needed. The poor availability of documentation regarding volunteerism is why it is only now that people in Bangladesh are starting to identify the scope of work and the uniqueness of volunteerism in the field of Disaster Risk Management especially more so in the communities. Therefore, this study is intended to investigate the feasibility of incorporating the concept of volunteerism in mainstreaming disaster response in Bangladesh.Student ID: 13168010 Supervisor Name: Keyword Disaster management; Volunteerism 63
Rohingya Crisis – A Profile of Child Protection on Host Community Children Mohammad Ashiqur Rahman Abstract The new Rohingya crisis is unique in its nature. Bangladesh has suffered from many crises including Rohingya but the exodus started from August 2017 has crossed all previous records. This was termed as a text book example for ethnic cleansing. Host communities have supported from the very beginning of the influx and it continues. However, people of Ukhia & Teknaf have their own social & economic issues. These places are few of the less developed places of Bangladesh and the Rohingya influx has brought immense pressure on them to cope with the situation. Children remain as the most vulnerable in any crisis and it is not different for children from Teknaf & Ukhia. Children’s experiences in Cox’s Bazar and the specific vulnerabilities they face are distinct from adults. At the same time, children themselves are best placed to articulate their own needs and desires. Children in host communities stated that they worry about their safety when leaving their home and immediate neighborhood. These concerns significantly limit children’s freedom of movement and their ability to have a sense of normality in their environment. Children are currently unable or limited in their ability to play freely or learn in preparation for their future. Open areas that were once playgrounds are now occupied by the tents of refugees. Children indicated that they are also concerned about the cleanliness of their living environment and the impact of that on their health. This study was designed to identify the additional needs of the host community children to protect their best interest in the crisis. This research was based on the output from both primary & secondary data.Student ID: : 13168002 Supervisor Name: Keyword Rohingya crisis; Ethnic cleansing 64
Flood Warning System: A Cost- Benefit Analysis of The Northern Bangladesh Mohammad Kamrul Hasan Abstract The new Rohingya crisis is unique in its nature. Bangladesh has suffered from many crises including Rohingya but the exodus started from August 2017 has crossed all previous records. This was termed as a text book example for ethnic cleansing. Host communities have supported from the very beginning of the influx and it continues. However, people of Ukhia & Teknaf have their own social & economic issues. These places are few of the less developed places of Bangladesh and the Rohingya influx has brought immense pressure on them to cope with the situation. Children remain as the most vulnerable in any crisis and it is not different for children from Teknaf & Ukhia. Children’s experiences in Cox’s Bazar and the specific vulnerabilities they face are distinct from adults. At the same time, children themselves are best placed to articulate their own needs and desires. Children in host communities stated that they worry about their safety when leaving their home and immediate neighborhood. These concerns significantly limit children’s freedom of movement and their ability to have a sense of normality in their environment. Children are currently unable or limited in their ability to play freely or learn in preparation for their future. Open areas that were once playgrounds are now occupied by the tents of refugees. Children indicated that they are also concerned about the cleanliness of their living environment and the impact of that on their health. This study was designed to identify the additional needs of the host community children to protect their best interest in the crisis. This research was based on the output from both primary & secondary data.Student ID: : 13168009 Supervisor Name: Keyword Rohingya crisis; Ethnic cleansing 65
Assessing the Cyclone Early Warning Services of Women, Children and Person with Disability: A Case Study in Nijhumdwip Md.Shahjahan Abstract This study, conducted as part of the Master of Disaster Management program at BRAC University, assessed the effectiveness of cyclone early warning services for vulnerable groups in Nijhumdwip, a remote island located in the Meghna estuary under Hatiya Upazila of Noakhali District. Due to its geographic location, Nijhumdwip is highly exposed to cyclones and storm surges, with women, children, older persons, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) being the most vulnerable segments of the population.The study examined how these groups receive, interpret, and respond to cyclone early warnings. Both primary and secondary data were used. Primary data were collected through 100 household surveys, 10 focus group discussions (FGDs), and 10 key informant interviews (KIIs), supplemented by participatory rural appraisal (PRA) techniques. The findings revealed that radio broadcasts, neighbors, and volunteers from the Cyclone Preparedness Programme (CPP) were the primary sources of cyclone warning information. Among women, 79 percent identified neighbors as the most effective communication channel, while CPP volunteers also played a significant role. Households with access to radios relied heavily on broadcast warnings.However, receiving warnings did not always lead to effective preparedness. Nearly 70 percent of women had difficulty interpreting cyclone warning signals, largely due to high illiteracy levels, with 86 percent of surveyed women being illiterate. Children also lacked sufficient knowledge about cyclone preparedness and depended largely on their mothers for guidance and decision-making. Additionally, 34 percent of women reported difficulties in evacuating children, elderly family members, and household belongings during adverse weather conditions. The study identified several barriers to effective response, including religious beliefs, distrust of warning messages, inadequate shelter infrastructure, long distances to shelters, socioeconomic constraints, and geographic isolation. These factors limited access to and utilization of available warning services and protective measures. The study concludes that effective early warning systems require not only timely dissemination but also community understanding and proactive response. It recommends improving the accuracy and timeliness of warnings, enhancing public awareness through education, and expanding interactive community-based programs led by CPP. Greater community engagement and targeted awareness initiatives are essential to strengthen disaster preparedness and resilience among vulnerable populations in Nijhumdwip.Student ID: : 13168015 Supervisor Name: Keyword Cyclone warning; Nijhumdwip; Discernment management 66
Cultural Appropriateness of Post Sidr housing Reconstruction: A Case of Sharankhola, Bagerhat Shams Mansoor Ghani Abstract Bangladesh is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world. Among the natural hazards cyclones and the associated storm surges are considered as the major threat to our 710km coastal belt with around 28 million people living within the risk zone. One of the major impacts of cyclone and storm surge is on human habitat severely disrupting the livelihood of the affected population. The usual response from the Government and different humanitarian organizations is providing emergency temporary shelter assistance and eventually a transitional or core shelter assistance following a ‘built back better’ approach focusing on resilience building and risk reduction. Cyclone Sidr, which hit our coast line in late 2007, caused massive destruction of settlements and was followed by an unprecedented reconstruction initiative by the government and NGOs changing the rural landscape permanently within a few years. Most of the agencies provided a cyclone resistant core shelter with potential for future addition and alteration by the owners. Such a multi-agency intervention, without proper consideration of rural culture of responsive built environment and indigenous materials and technologies may lead to a culturally inappropriate settlement degrading our rural landscape and heritage. This research aims to analyze cultural elements of our coastal settlement in general and evaluate the post Sidr assisted reconstruction works in the backdrop of cultural appropriateness. Sharankhola, one of the most intervened areas after Sidr, is selected as the study area of this research. The later alterations and modifications by the users will be studied as an indication of cultural inadequacies. Observation, focus group discussions and household surveys in the study area will be conducted to ascertain user feedback and consciousness about culture and the outcome of the assisted shelters.Student ID: : 13168007 Supervisor Name: Keyword Sidr; Cyclone; Cultural appropriateness 67
Humanitarian Response Coordination Architecture in Bangladesh Rohingya Refugee Crisis Operation: Practice, Challenges and Prospects Khaled Masud Ahmed Abstract Bangladesh is hosting over a million forcibly displaced population who fled violence and ethnic cleansing in Myanmar. The new influx of around 400,000 people took shelter in the peninsula of Teknaf and Ukhia of Cox`s Bazar. These arrivals have caused a humanitarian crisis which is categorized as a one of global growing ``refugee`` crisis. The massive scale of refugee populations has led to life saving needs. Although the Rohingya crisis has received huge global attention, efforts to continue to mobilize and sustain resources to cater to basic needs have people. In a changing humanitarian landscape, the government with its humanitarian partners including UN, Red Cross and NGOs are striving for response coordination architecture to operate in a complex humanitarian setting. Evidence shows that parallel coordination structures do not benefit agencies to work in coordinated fashion rather they operate in isolation. Thus, overall coordination architecture is yet to form to guide an interoperable and coordinated response strategy. On the same note, working with own mandates, organizations, including the government become unable to deliver integrated assistance and therefore it does not gain expected impact. This paper represents the issues of the Rohingya crisis and the existing response coordination situation, problems, process and findings through literature review, key informant interviews (KII) of people directly involved in the complex operation and focus group discussions. The objectives of the study are to analyze the coordination structure of humanitarian organizations in Bangladesh, in case of the Rohingya crisis and compare with international standards. This paper will also find out the challenges and advantages of the Cluster approachStudent ID: : 13168011 Supervisor Name: Keyword Rohingya; Refugee crisis; Ethnic cleansing; Cluster approach 68
2022 Avalanche Risk Reduction and Community Resilience Building in Badakhshan, Afghanistan Sayed Hafiz Lashkari Abstract Badakhshan province is one of Afghanistan's mountainous provinces, located in the northeast. During the winter, most of the country's villages are blanketed in heavy snow, which has an impact on people's lives, property, livestock, and agriculture. Based on the review of the literature, an avalanche in the eastern section of Badakhshan province killed 42 people and injured many more, according to the provincial governor's office. According to the Red Crescent's director, avalanches killed more than 60 people in 2012. This research aims to assess the vulnerability of avalanches, to develop an avalanche risk reduction plan and a reliable early warning system. Furthermore, to evaluate the community’s capacity to tackle Avalanche Hazard in the study area. The online survey was conducted with the government and non-government organizations. Respondents were divided into two groups: government officials such as the NDMA and NGOs working at the provincial and local levels; all processes were conducted by phone and email and Community members who live in avalanche-prone areas, academia, and society. After analyzing all the provided data, the result showed that the level of vulnerability has gradually decreased by getting knowledge and better awareness about the risk of avalanche in the study area. In conclusion, these findings imply that communities are mostly unaware of the disaster's implications. Furthermore, most houses will not have enough food, water, or fuel during the avalanche disaster if no immediate response is provided. The main issue confronting avalanche risk reduction and Community resilience Building to failure is the region's security condition; nonetheless, non-governmental organizations are working to lower avalanche risk in Badakhshan province.Student ID: 21168008 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Avalanche risk reduction 69
Reliability of Rainwater Harvesting System in the Coastal Bangladesh: A Conceptual Framework for Cluster Approach Tank Sharing Model Suman Chandra Sil Abstract Despite having an average annual rainfall of 2400mm- 2600mm rainwater harvesting is still considered as “Seasonal solution” for drinking water sources in the coastal area of Bangladesh. Given the phenomenon of “Too much or too little rainfall” during different seasons that result in a huge waste of rainwater makes it difficult to design a rainwater harvesting system that can provide adequate and year-round drinking water yet economically feasible for the low-income households. However, the need for drinking water, especially in the multi-hazards coastal area of Bangladesh is a “must-have” survival issue that goes beyond any technical or economic feasibility framework. This leads to a quest of designing a rainwater system, specifically the storage tank which is more “reliable” as well as “affordable” for the low-income households including the 35 million people living in the coastal area of Bangladesh. Employing a mixed method approach in combination of literature review, Simple Random Survey (SRS), Focus Group Discussion (FGD), in-depth interviews and hypothetical scenario analysis, this paper introduces the “Cluster Approach Tank Sharing model” and presents the result which shows improved “Reliability” of the rainwater harvesting system. The concept “Tank Sharing” used in this study has already been proven successful in the “Off-grid” smart energy sharing (solar) and decentralized water supply as well as sewage system design. The result of this study can potentially be used by different stakeholders including the government, NGOs, and the private sector to scale up the rainwater harvesting systems, especially in the water-stressed settings such as the coastal area of Bangladesh. This scale-up of the rainwater harvesting system will contribute to achieving SDG 6 targets by providing more “reliable” and “affordable” drinking water for all and thus contributing to economic progress while keeping the environment safe.Student ID: : 14168011 Supervisor Name: : Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Rainwater harvesting; Rainwater; Coastal areas; Tank sharing; Off-grid smart energy sharing 70
Physical Environment of Child Friendly Space (CFS) As an Intervention of Child Protection: In Case of Forcibly Displaced Rohingya Children in Cox’s Bazar Nandita Barai Abstract Child friendly Space (CFS) has been introduced worldwide as an effective Child Protection response to the affected children in emergency to restore their resiliency and normalcy of life through psychosocial support programs. An effective physical environment is the primary need to accommodate the psychosocial activities of a CFS. The aim of this study is to explore the condition of the physical environment of10 selected CFSs in Cox’s Bazar built for the forcedly displaced Rohingya children. The study assesses the minimum standards and the impact of varying local factors on them using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Major findings revealed that several standard criteria were compromised due to hilly region and acute land scarcity of study area while the building material and technique, climate and culture largely characterize the physical environment of CFSs in Cox’s Bazar. The study helps to understand the challenges of local factors in planning and designing CFSs.Student ID: : 18268002 Supervisor Name: Dr. Mohammad Faruk Keyword Child development; Child Friendly Space; Child protection; Crisis; Displacement; Physical environment; Protection risks; Psychological distress; Psychosocial support 71
Community Perception about Climate Change: Investigating Experiences of Himalayan Communities Involved in the Tourism Industry Rubina Karki Abstract There occurs a close relationship between tourism and climate, where the former is highly dependent on the latter. Despite being a non-negligible contributor to climate change, the tourism business can be considered as a highly climate-sensitive sector due to its close connectivity to the natural environment and climatic conditions. Local perceptions play an important role to understand climate change better, through redirecting the focus towards empirical investigations that often might be overlooked by modern science. The present research assesses the perception of the local people who are dependent on tourism regarding their understanding and impacts of climate change in their livelihood in different villages of Manang district of Nepal. Manang is among the popular tourist locations of the country while also being located in the Himalayan region. A total of 107 respondents were involved in the study where 84 respondents were surveyed, followed by focus group discussions and interviews. The local people perceived that the climate in their villages have been changing with perceived increased summer and winter temperature, decreased snow fall and snow coverage and reduced or erratic rainfall. Though these perceived changes were observed to be positive for tourism, the stakeholders believe that these changes could negatively impact their livelihood in the long run. Additionally, no adaptation plans have occurred yet since the respondents do not feel the need for adaptation for the time being, however, they are aware that actions must be taken to reduce the impacts of climate change on tourism in the long run. In order to reduce the impacts, appropriate preventive measures and tourism in climate change related policies should be implemented in the tourism sector of Nepal.Student ID: 19168003 Supervisor Name: Dr. Imon Chowdhooree Keyword Climate Change; Tourism Industry; Himalayan Communities; Nepal 72
Vulnerability and User Awareness Level Assessment of Fire Risks of High-Rise Buildings in Dhaka City: A Study of Mohakhali Commercial Area Dewan Nurul Huda Abstract Dhaka City grew in a spontaneous and unplanned way. A huge population with weak services and facilities further increases its vulnerability. Government offices have very inadequate control over the growth trend. In recent times, a number of highrise buildings are growing day by day covering commercial, residential, industrial, and even hospital buildings. Fire is the most occurring urban disaster and can cause huge loss of life and property in a very short time especially in high-rise buildings. Again Dhaka is also vulnerable to seismic risks. Immediately after an earthquake, fire will break out all over the city. Primary and secondary data were used in the study. Primary data were collected from individual building users and building authorities. The data were collected by questionnaire survey, key informant interview, and field observation. The finding of the study showed that most of the dwellers and owners do not have a basic awareness and fire management knowledge & practice. Respondents can identify a few potential sources of fire, claim that they know what to do in time of the fire, how to extinguish a fire, etc. But most of the respondents also said that they do not know how to operate a fire extinguisher, they didn’t participate in any fire drill ever or receive any fire or rescue training, etc. Mostly these buildings have mixed land use. They spent a very small amount on fire preparedness. None of the buildings has a fire safety plan; very few buildings have fire emergency exit signage. Almost no building authorities practice any fire or evacuation drills. No building has the required size of the water reservoir, the specified capacity of pumps, and firefighting pump house according to law. Most of the buildings have a fire riser system in their buildings, but not all risers were in good condition. Very few buildings have automatic detection systems but no building has a sprinkler system. All the buildings have some form of portable fire extinguisher but they were not enough. It is also common that building owners, developers, office, industry owners and even common people do not want to abide by the laws, comply with the regulations. FSCD is mainly responsible for fire incident management services in Bangladesh. But several agencies are also involved in the overall process. RAJUK, City Corporation, DDM has important roles to play in fire hazard management. Again, there is a huge lack of coordination between these departments. They are lacking in their technical, financial, HR and field-level monitoring capacities. An integrated initiative needs to be taken including planning, implementing, regulating, service giving line agencies.Student ID: 18168001 Supervisor Name: Shams Mansoor Ghani Keyword Vulnerability; User awareness level assessment; Fire risks; High-rise buildings 73
Coping Strategies in Riverbank Erosion Affected Areas: A Case Study of Andharmanik Village in Manikganj District Md. Abdur Rahman Abstract Dhaka City grew in a spontaneous and unplanned way. A huge population with weak services and facilities further increases its vulnerability. Government offices have very inadequate control over the growth trend. In recent times, a number of highrise buildings are growing day by day covering commercial, residential, industrial, and even hospital buildings. Fire is the most occurring urban disaster and can cause huge loss of life and property in a very short time especially in high-rise buildings. Again Dhaka is also vulnerable to seismic risks. Immediately after an earthquake, fire will break out all over the city. Primary and secondary data were used in the study. Primary data were collected from individual building users and building authorities. The data were collected by questionnaire survey, key informant interview, and field observation. The finding of the study showed that most of the dwellers and owners do not have a basic awareness and fire management knowledge & practice. Respondents can identify a few potential sources of fire, claim that they know what to do in time of the fire, how to extinguish a fire, etc. But most of the respondents also said that they do not know how to operate a fire extinguisher, they didn’t participate in any fire drill ever or receive any fire or rescue training, etc. Mostly these buildings have mixed land use. They spent a very small amount on fire preparedness. None of the buildings has a fire safety plan; very few buildings have fire emergency exit signage. Almost no building authorities practice any fire or evacuation drills. No building has the required size of the water reservoir, the specified capacity of pumps, and firefighting pump house according to law. Most of the buildings have a fire riser system in their buildings, but not all risers were in good condition. Very few buildings have automatic detection systems but no building has a sprinkler system. All the buildings have some form of portable fire extinguisher but they were not enough. It is also common that building owners, developers, office, industry owners and even common people do not want to abide by the laws, comply with the regulations. FSCD is mainly responsible for fire incident management services in Bangladesh. But several agencies are also involved in the overall process. RAJUK, City Corporation, DDM has important roles to play in fire hazard management. Again, there is a huge lack of coordination between these departments. They are lacking in their technical, financial, HR and field-level monitoring capacities. An integrated initiative needs to be taken including planning, implementing, regulating, service giving line agencies.Student ID: 18168003 Supervisor Name: Shams Mansoor Ghani Keyword Vulnerability; User awareness level assessment; Fire risks; High-rise buildings 74
Exploring Hazard Risks and People’s Adjustment: A Study in the Downstream of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project Md. Fahim Azraf Khan Abstract The development induced hazards (i.e. erosion) has become a matter of great concern in recent years. The Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project is going to be one of the biggest infrastructures in Bangladesh and is estimated to increase the annual growth by more than 1.0 per cent. But large development projects have some demerits too. Due to this massive construction process, the normal channel of the river has been altered and it has resulted in significant erosion downstream of the Padma River. So, a study has been undertaken to understand the hazard risk of the Uria Village which is situated at the downstream of the Padma River in Louhajang upazila. To investigate the changed social and economic status and the coping strategies of the people living in the area, a questionnaire survey has been done on 113 households. Moreover, change of land use pattern of the area has been determined using Landset. Finally, an overall comparison has been done on the present livelihood, economic status and condition of the houses of the households with the state before beginning of the construction of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge. It has been found that water bodies have been decreased to a great extent but build up area has been increased almost 8 times between 2000 and 2020. The agricultural lands also decreased from 91134.8 acres to 15335.34 acres in the mentioned period. Due to erosion specially in the downstream, these lands have been engulfed by the Padma River. On the other hand, 74 out of 100 people lost their lands where they used to live or cultivate. Only 15% of them have been able to find new jobs and livelihood. To adapt with the condition, 66% respondents are planning to relocate themselves to nearby villages or cities like Holudia, Madaripur, Goalibanda, Srinagar etc. which are situated in comparatively highlands. It has been recommended to provide small interest-free loans to the affected people from the administration so that they can adapt with the shocks of disasters and build new temporary houses to live in. Along the shore of the Padma, plantation of this Vetiver grass can mitigate the rate of erosion as well. Finally, after the end of construction, the current location of the Shimula Ghat should be changed as it has accelerated the rate of the erosion downstream.Student ID: 20268015 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Hazard Risks; People’s Adjustment; Downstream; Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project 75
Flood Vulnerability and Associated Risk Management in Umuebu Community, Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria Aghanenu Oghenemudiakevwe Abstract This study evaluated flood vulnerability and associated risk management in Umuebu Community, Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State. The study identified the various flood characteristics in Umuebu Community, Ukwuani L.G.A of Delta State; examined the causes of flood vulnerability in Umuebu; discussed the impacts of flood vulnerability on the inhabitants of Umuebu and suggested flood associated risk management strategies in Umuebu Community, Ukwuani L.G.A of Delta State. The review of past works has proved useful to this research work, as it provided different writers with different views that have been researched and tested. It also revealed the various causes of flood vulnerability as well as the solutions to the problems of flood vulnerability, which made it possible for the researcher to have knowledge of the topic under discussion. 150 questionnaires were administered to respondents in Umuebu community as part of the descriptive survey research design and the stratified random sampling technique used in this study. The data that used to carry-out this study was obtained from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and Ministry of agriculture which include data on flood characteristics (types/category, time/duration, causes, effects, and nature of flooding) and flood vulnerability on the livelihood of the people (farm produce, houses, schools, companies, etc) to also include archival climate data (temperature, rainfall) that was obtained from the nearest Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) Office.Student ID: 21368011 Supervisor Name: Shams Mansoor Ghani Keyword Flood; Vulnerability; Associated risk management; Umuebu; Types of floods; Causes of floods 76
Role of Chemical Industry in Fire Safety Management in Bangladesh: A Case Study in Old Town Dhaka Md. Khairul Anam Abstract Rapid urbanization and unplanned city planning have become a genuine issue in recent decades. The situation is much worse in the Old Dhaka area of Dhaka South City Corporation. Despite having narrow roads, high population density, faulty city planning, illegal land acquisition, it is a commercially key area where no demarcation is seen among the residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Corruption, nepotism, and absence of proper regulatory mechanisms open the door for non-compliance of fire safety rules in the chemical industries of Old Dhaka and every year a huge loss of lives and financial assets are seen due to frequent fire incidents. The purpose of this research was to explore the knowledge of fire safety management among chemical industry workers and authorities, evaluate the existing fire hazard management system in the chemical industries and make a substantial addition to academia by investigating the challenges in implementing a proper fire safety management system in chemical industries and recommend solutions for them. This study used mixed approaches to collect data, where quantitative data was collected through interviewer-administered questionnaire surveys among purposely selected 157 participants and qualitative data were collected through 10 KIIs and three focus group discussions. The study results show that the overall knowledge of employees on fire safety is 68.20%, while the overall compliance of industries is 64.28%. High population density near industrial areas, inadequate supply of firefighting equipment, corruption, irregular monitoring to industry compliance by the respective authority and fragile water & electricity connection contribute to the non-compliance with the industry building code for the chemical industries. It leads to elevated risk of industrial accidents in Dhaka South City Corporation causing unbearable losses of human lives and properties every year. By shifting chemical industries outside of Dhaka City and raising awareness among the owners and employees in these industries, fire incidents can be reduced. To reduce the risk of fire and property damage in the chemical industrial region, this study recommends raising awareness among workers and owners, effective government policies, financial assistance from the government, and compliance with the RAJUK building code. Fire safety can be made more affordable and high-quality for the public by adding full-time and reserve firefighters and including the chemical sector in fire safety management through contracts and subscriptions; the government can then reduce the enormous costs associated with fire incidents.Student ID: 19168002 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Chemical industry; Fire safety management 77
2023 Evaluating Vulnerability and Resilience in the Face of Earthquake and Fire Risks Nishat Tasnim Manami Abstract The economic and cultural center of Bangladesh is Dhaka, the capital and biggest city of the country. Old Dhaka, the area's older section, is very significant to Bangladesh since it functions as a thriving center for cultural history and valuable resources. It presently causes problems because of its high population density and unplanned urban growth. Dhaka is under earthquake zone 2 and in 100 years it hasn’t faced a major earthquake. With this concern, according to seismologists, a powerful earthquake is expected to hit Dhaka soon. Fire service division of the Dhaka Tribune reveals a magnitude 7 earthquake would cause 500,000 buildings, or over 60% of the city's buildings, to collapse. Old Dhaka is especially vulnerable to earthquakes and fire threats because of the unorganized land use plan, faulty construction, limited spacious roads, and unequal distribution of utilities. The post-earthquake fire is another troubling development that calls for immediate attention and treatment. Gas pipelines and electrical cables are often ruptured by strong seismic shaking, which may start fires. Buildings that are near to one another, buildings that share a wall, and narrow streets may all increase the losses. The physical vulnerability and societal adaptability to earthquake and fire hazards in Ward 29 in Old Dhaka are the main topic of this paper. Industrial structures, warehouses, and factories with mixed-use structures are its defining features. Through field surveys, the research included an analysis of the present road networks and urban amenities. To determine how vulnerable individuals are and their conception of fire and earthquakes, key informant interviews, and focus groups were conducted. The author reached a broad conclusion on the vulnerability of existing buildings to unplanned design, weak structures, unlawful floor extensions, and externally added staircases via 20 building inspections. Valuable insights were gathered by examining the present situation of the community via interviews with 120 locals, their prior experiences with fire and earthquakes, and their current awareness. The results of this study were verified using secondary qualitative data, which improved the paper's reliability and validity. According to this research, immediate responses and approaches may lessen the effects of earthquakes and fires in Ward 29. These also highlight certain places that should be of concern and some buildings that need immediate attention. This would make it easier as a resource for present and future scholars, students, and public or private organizations to prioritize social resilience and pre-existing constructed structures in their work on Old Dhaka.Student ID: 21368002 Supervisor Name: Shams Mansoor Ghani Keyword Fire hazard; Earthquake; Old Dhaka; Social vulnerability; Post-earthquake fire; Fire incident; Vulnerable structure 78
Community Based Risk Assessment on Landslides in Siddhalekh-Dhading Ashmita Thapa Magar Abstract Landslides are one of the most recurring and damage inducing disasters around the world as well as in Nepal. Despite being a recurring disaster in Siddhalekh Rural Municipality, one of the remote areas of Nepal, the events and consequences have not made it to the official records as human deaths are absent. However, the local community has to face various troubles as a result of landslides. This research aims to understand the community perceptions, livelihood options and assess the vulnerability of the people that is resulted by landslides in the region through a process of Community based risk assessment (CRA). The study was carried out within Siddhalekh rural municipality, where primary information was collected from various field visits in the form of transact walks. The data collection for the study was done through focus group discussion (FGD), semi-structured interview/key informants' interview and literature review of secondary data. A total of 80 students participated in the questionnaire survey, 10 discussion groups and 35 key informants were interviewed. The qualitative data were extracted through content analysis and methodological triangulation and cross checked to test the validity through the convergence of information from these research tools. The results of the study revealed that the community people of the region are at risk of landslides. Heavy rainfall, steep slopes, excavation of hills to develop roads were found to be the major triggering factors of landslides. Roadside landslides were found to be most common as the construction of the newly built roads were not finished properly and hills remained excavated letting loose soil flow. Due to landslides, the local community suffered disturbances in their daily lives and economic activities were altered. Despite having knowledge about the risk of landslides, locals were tempted to settle near the roads for better opportunities which increased their vulnerability even more. The ultimate solution was found to be proper policy planning regarding the risk reduction and budget allocation for afforestation, appropriate afforestation, proper management of bare slopes after cutting for road expansions and various campaigns to create awareness among people. If proper assessment is done, the community will benefit from development activities and the vulnerability from landslide risk will decrease.Student ID: : 20268019 Supervisor Name: Dr. Mohammad Faruk Keyword Community participation; Risk assessment; Landslides; Road expansions 79
Assessing the Effectiveness of Structural and Non-Structural Flood Mitigation Measures of Bushrod Island’s Unplanned Settlements Abu Sumaila Kamara Abstract Flooding poses a significant threat to the inhabitants of unplanned settlements on Bushrod Island in Monrovia, Liberia. Although flood risk mitigation strategies are in place, their effectiveness in reducing the impacts of flooding remains unclear. This study aims to assess the efficacy of both structural and non-structural flood risk mitigation measures in minimizing the dangers and effects of flooding on Bushrod Island. The research objectives are to identify and categorize flood hazards, evaluate the effectiveness of flood mitigation measures, and propose improvements to address specific flood risks. By answering research questions about flood hazards, the measures’ effectiveness, influencing factors, and potential improvements, this study will provide valuable insights into flood risk reduction strategies for similar contexts elsewhere. This research sheds light on how well these precautions work to reduce flood risks in different contexts. The research incorporates a couple of mixed tools and techniques such as primary and secondary data, and qualitative and quantitative analysis. The research also used survey and interview as data collection tools using the combination of purposive and stratified random sampling. The nature of the research is analytical and the purpose is centered on fundamental research tactics while the research design is conclusive. Since the long-term effectiveness of the available mitigation measures in the study area remain uncertain, the study will focus on identifying the hazard risks, vulnerabilities, and assess the immediate impact of flood mitigation measures, but also investigate the durability of both structural and non- structural measures over time which is essential to understanding their continued efficacy. Additionally, understanding the extent and nature of flood damage is essential to comprehensively evaluate the impact of the assessed measures. It will help in determining the economic losses, and social implications faced by the communities during flood events. This data is vital for decision-makers and stakeholders to prioritize investment in appropriate flood risk reduction strategies. By addressing these research gaps, the researcher can offer more comprehensive and practical recommendations for improving the existing and new flood risk reduction strategies in the study area and potentially inform flood risk management practices in other similar contexts nationally.Student ID: 22168001 Supervisor Name: Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir Keyword Bushrod Island; Flood mitigation; Structural flood mitigation; Non structural flood mitigation 80
Cause of Repetitive Fire Disaster in Informal Settlements and The Importance of Community-Based Disaster Risk Mitigation Mehnaz Ahmed Adiba Abstract The growth of informal settlements has increased massively in developing countries in the last few decades. The main pull factor from rural to urban cities is the high possibility of job opportunities for the migrating poor. This has resulted in the formation of substandard housing as a means of housing the low-income urban poor. The living conditions of the slum dwellers are extremely hazardous. Due to the unviability of basic facilities, slum dwellers are forced to use illegal connections, which is the major cause of disaster in slums. Fire disaster is the most common and devastating hazard in the shanties. Although it is a concerning matter due to its repetitive occurrence, little to no action has been taken by the respective authorities. Thus, community-based fire mitigation is the only mode of survival for the slum dwellers. The research focuses on the cause of repetitive fire disasters in informal settlements and how community-based disaster risk mitigation plays a vital role in addressing the issue. The survey site, Laal Fakir Majar slum is a double structured slum, situated in Kalabagan, Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh. It is formed within a pocket space that is in the residential zone of the city. This makes the site an ideal study area to understand the context of slums and their correlation with urban development. The research conducted includes both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The questionnaire survey includes 127 respondents, followed by a focus group discussion, which includes 12 respondents, to gather information based on the real scenario. A key informant interview was conducted with the respective authority bodies to understand the policy formulated by the government and the actions taken by the local NGOs. The perception of the targeted group revealed the vulnerability of the slum dwellers to fire disasters. Policies in the national guidelines regarding disaster mitigation in informal settlements are yet to be implemented which creates a scope for the corrupted influencers to extort the vulnerability of the slum dwellers. Lack of help from the local authorities has led to the use of local knowledge as the only mode of survival during disasters. The importance of community-based disaster risk mitigation has been recognized globally, as it has proven to be the most effective in preventing disasters due to its bottom-up approach. Even though the role of community-based disaster risk mitigation has been recognized, it has yet to be widely implemented.Student ID: 18268006 Supervisor Name: Dr. Imon Chowdhooree Keyword Informal settlements; Fire disaster; Community participation; Risk mitigation 81
Needs of Resilient Structure: A Case Study of Flood Disaster in Phuentsholing, Bhutan Ran Bdr Chhettri Abstract Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of hydro-meteorological hazards in Bhutan, including river floods, landslides, and glacial lake outburst floods. Among these hazards, river flooding poses a significant threat to lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure. This study focuses on the Toorsa River basin in Phuentsholing, under Chhukha Dzongkhag, where communities face growing risks from recurrent flooding.The research aimed to assess the livelihood capital and vulnerability of people living along the Toorsa River. Field data were collected through interviews with residents, local authorities, and officials from the Phuentsholing City Corporation and Thromde. Participatory assessment tools were applied, supported by the Department for International Development (DFID) Sustainable Livelihood Framework and relevant studies on flood-resilient structures from Japan and Bangladesh. Secondary information was gathered from government policies, meteorological and hydrological records, journal articles, books, and previous research. The study found that communities along the Toorsa River are increasingly vulnerable to flood hazards. Floods threaten homes, businesses, livestock, and critical infrastructure, while also jeopardizing livelihoods and public safety. The flood disaster in Phuentsholing was primarily triggered by prolonged and intense rainfall, which caused rivers to overflow beyond their carrying capacity. The resulting damage included destruction of houses and commercial establishments, displacement of residents, disruption of transportation networks, contamination of water sources, and heightened risks of waterborne diseases. The study also highlights the importance of hydropower, a major contributor to Bhutan’s economy, which depends on reliable water resources and resilient infrastructure. Recognizing the growing risks, His Majesty directed the High-Level COVID-19 Task Force to establish flood early warning systems and resilient protective structures for communities, particularly in the Amochhu settlement area. Although efforts were initiated by relevant agencies, effective and comprehensive solutions remain limited. The findings underscore the urgent need for improved flood risk management, including the installation of effective early warning systems, construction of resilient infrastructure, and strengthening of community preparedness. The Phuentsholing flood disaster demonstrates the region’s vulnerability to climate-related hazards and highlights the importance of integrating disaster risk reduction, livelihood protection, and climate adaptation measures to enhance long-term resilience and sustainable development.Student ID: 20268010 Supervisor Name: Khurshid Alam Keyword River flood disaster; Flood risks; Emergency services; Resilient structure 82
2024 Assessment of Fecal Sludge Management System in Rohingya Response Refugees Camps, Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar Md. Toriqul Islam Abstract Bangladesh is currently experiencing the world’s fastest increasing Rohingya refugee settlement issue. With limited resources and available space, managing feces sludge in emergency settlements with a high population density is becoming increasingly difficult. Onsite sanitation and the removal of human waste are mainly unregulated in Bangladesh. In this study, thirty-three (33) camps with 197 Fecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs) were utilized, and around eight different faecal sludge (FS) treatment methods were used. By assessing the effluent quality and technical assessment at the Kutupalong Rohingya Refugee Camps, this study seeks to gauge the performance of FSTPs. Effluent quality and technical assessment from different technologies are being used to treat the fecal sludge at Rohingya camps that contain Anaerobic Baffled Reactor (ABR), Up-flow filters (UFF), Waste Stabilization Ponds (WSPs), Solid Separation Unit (SSU), Lime Stabilization Ponds (LSP), Decentralized Waste Water Treatment Plant (DEWATS), Anaerobic Lagoon (AL), Anaerobic Settling Thickening Tanks (ASTTs) and Centralized Treatment plant. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) elimination efficiency through the UFF, WSP & AL were found respectively 88.89%,100% & 100% that the values were found to vary from 18 mg/L to 29 mg/L while meeting with the Department of Environment (DoE) standard (30mg/l). Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) removed efficiency by the UFF, WSP & AL by almost 100% and values were found to be varied from 60 mg/L to 85 mg/L while the allowable limit of DoE standard is 200mg/L. Total Suspended Solid (TSS) removed efficiency best performed by UFF, WSP & AL found 100% that values were found to be varied from 2mg/L to 70 mg/L while the permissible limit of DoE standard 100 mg/L. The concentrations of nitrate (DoE, 250 mg/L) and phosphate (DoE, 35 mg/L) in treated effluent were consistently determined to be much lower than the permitted level. Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Fecal Coliform (FC) bacteria concentrations have exceeded the allowable DoE standard of 1000 cfu/100ml. On the other hand, ABR, LSP, SSU, ASTT & DEWATS treated methods were not capable of removing the TSS, COD, and BOD refugees’ camps situation according to DoE standard inland surface water bodies. Field monitoring was concentrated on a number of essential intervention issues, including adjusting water levels, maintaining uniform flow, managing vegetation, reducing odors, and maintaining slope. The FSTP has also received certain constitutive proposals that would ensure its long-term viability.Student ID: 21368002 Supervisor Name: Shams Mansoor Ghani Keyword Rohingya refugee camps; Refugee settlement; Sanitation; Sludge management 83
An Inquiry into the Causes of Water Logging and the Coping Strategies of the Urban Poor: A Case of the Railway Slum, Khulna Raisa Binte Salam Abstract Developing countries like Bangladesh frequently deal with various socio-economic challenges, especially urban poverty. Despite making an essential contribution to the national GDP, the urban poor population lacks proper housing, sanitation, safety, and security. Bangladesh's location and the shifting climate make it a hotbed for natural disasters. Furthermore, cyclonic storms, surges, sea level elevation, and saline encroachment exacerbate the housing predicament of urban impoverished communities, notably in coastal zones. Being a city in the coastal zone, Khulna experiences the outsized impact of storm surges, cyclones, and coastal floods. These hazards cause a persistent waterlogging problem, especially in low-lying slum areas. The Railway slum area is one of the largest slums in Khulna, and it has been experiencing frequent and prolonged waterlogging problems. With their limited means and a trial-and- error process, the inhabitants of the Railway slum have learned and innovated to cope with the stagnant water. This research focused on two interrelated issues: the cause of waterlogging in the Railway slum and how the inhabitants cope with it. This case study-based research employs various methods to collect qualitative and quantitative data, including observation, photographic survey, key informant interview, household survey, and focused group discussion. Each method offers unique insights and perspectives that contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the subject under study. Triangulation was used to validate the findings. The results bring to light the causes of this prolonged waterlogging. The findings show the precautionary measures taken by the slum dwellers to reduce the impact of waterlogging conditions, as well as their coping strategies.Student ID: 20268014 Supervisor Name: Shams Mansoor Ghani Keyword Coping strategies; Coastal zone; Stagnant water; Precautionary measures; Slum dwellers 84
Integrating Architecture in Rainwater Harvesting for Climate and Disaster Resilience in Coastal Cities: A Case Study of Cox’s Bazar Israt Jahan Abstract Water scarcity is a crucial global challenge due to rapid urbanization, population explosion, climate change and global warming. As a result, creative and sustainable methods of managing water resources are essential to ensure availability of sustainable, clean water sources and to create disaster resilient communities. Cox's Bazar is a renowned tourist hotspot located in the southeastern region of Bangladesh. The main sources of water in the region are groundwater and surface water, both of which are encountering escalating difficulties. The excessive extraction of groundwater and the invasion of seawater, worsened by the increase in sea levels, have led to a notable problem known as salinity intrusion. The growing tourism sector exacerbates the pressure on freshwater resources, as the need for drinkable water rises due to the influx of tourists. Additionally, Cox's Bazar is situated in an area prone to seismic activity, which has led to worries about the possible risks of earthquakes, especially since there are a lot of Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals (FDMN) living in refugee camps. Rainwater harvesting (RWH) has become a viable approach and alternative way to mitigate water scarcity, lessen reliance on conventional water sources and reduce future water scarcity. This study aims to find the prospective architectural design areas that can improve rainwater harvesting and build resilient communities to climate change and natural disasters. The research is based on a mixed method approach, including two phases. The first phase is to understand the vulnerable community responses with the rainwater harvesting concept. And the second phase includes several architectural project analyses to find out the potentiality of integrating architecture with rainwater harvesting practices. The findings present that integrating rainwater harvesting into architectural design not only lessens the water needs but also helps to maintain the balance in urban water management systems. Additionally, the study shows the adaptive design sectors can create resilience by reducing vulnerability to climate-related disasters. To lessen the negative effects of climate change and make coastal cities more adaptable so that urban sustainability, new approaches must be implemented.Student ID: 20268014 Supervisor Name: Shams Mansoor Ghani Keyword Rainwater harvesting; Climate change; Architecture; Disaster resilience; Coastal cities 85
Analyzing Female Humanitarian Workers’ Challenges: A Case of Humanitarian Organizations in Afghanistan Jamila Ahmadi Abstract This study examines the multifaceted challenges faced by female humanitarian workers in Afghanistan, where humanitarian organizations play a critical role in delivering essential services to vulnerable populations while also providing limited employment opportunities for women. The research focuses on understanding the professional roles of these women and the structural, social, and political barriers that constrain their work. Since the return of the Taliban to power, Afghan women have experienced intensified restrictions on their rights and freedoms, including limitations on education, mobility, healthcare access, dress codes, and employment. These constraints, combined with broader political instability, economic hardship, security risks, and conservative social norms, have significantly affected the ability of female humanitarian workers to perform their duties effectively. In many cases, women face additional pressure from family and community expectations that further restrict their participation in the workforce. The study adopts a mixed-methods design, integrating both qualitative and quantitative approaches. In-depth interviews were conducted with female staff working in selected national and international humanitarian organizations in Kabul and Mazar-e-Sharif, while an online survey was used to collect quantitative data from a broader sample. The qualitative data were analyzed thematically using NVivo to identify recurring patterns and key themes related to workplace barriers, societal stigma, and coping strategies. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS to provide statistical insights into the prevalence and severity of the challenges reported. Findings reveal that female humanitarian workers face interconnected challenges that impact their professional performance, psychological well-being, and career development. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve institutional support, promote gender equality, and address cultural and structural barriers within the humanitarian sector. It further emphasizes the importance of creating safer and more inclusive working environments that enable women to contribute effectively to humanitarian response efforts in Afghanistan.Student ID: 23168004 Supervisor Name: Shams Mansoor Ghani Keyword Female humanitarian workers; Challenges; NGOs; Gender equality; Female workers; Taliban; Conservative society and families 86
2025 Factors And Impacts of Water Logging in The City Life of Malibagh, Dhaka Faria Yasmin Abstract Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh and one of the world’s most densely populated mega-cities, is situated along the northeastern banks of Buriganga River. Rapid urbanization puts immense pressure on Dhaka resources. The urban expansion has led to numerous challenges, including traffic congestion, air and water pollution and waste management. One of the significant problems in Dhaka is waterlogging, particularly during the monsoon season. Reported contributing factors include poor drainage infrastructure, lack of maintenance, natural siltation, and waste accumulation blocking drainage paths. However, detailed account of the impact of waterlogging in everyday life in Dhaka often remain ignored in the literature. This study explores the factors of seasonal water logging and their impacts on the city life of Malibagh area, Dhaka. Media and newspaper coverage suggested to identify the study and a reconnaissance survey helped to finalize the study area of this research. This study follows qualitative research approach in conducting data collection to understand concepts, opinions, or experiences of the citizens of Malibagh area. The study uses observation, questionnaire survey and interview as forms of data collection. Collected data were analyzed to identify the main factors of waterlogging in the study area. Findings show that the consequences of waterlogging are far-reaching – disrupting daily life, causing traffic jams, spreading waterborne diseases, damaging roads, and increasing construction and maintenance costs. Waterlogging in the study area not only harms the environment and society but also imposes significant economic costs. The findings suggest improved drainage systems, effective waste management & regular cleaning, water flow regulation in natural drainage channels as ways to mitigate the multifaceted impacts of waterlogging in Dhaka.Student ID: Supervisor Name: Keyword Waterlogging; Dhaka city; Waterborne diseases; Drainage systems 87
Alternative Livelihood Options for Climate Victims: A Case Study of Farmer Community of Munshiganj Union at Satkhira District Md. Mostafa Kamal Abstract Climate change and global warming are increasing the vulnerability of Bangladesh’s coastal regions to frequent cyclones, storm surges, tidal flooding, heat waves, floods, and salinity intrusion. Munshiganj Union in Satkhira, where livelihoods largely depend on agriculture, is particularly affected. As traditional farming becomes increasingly difficult, many farmers are seeking alternative livelihood options.This study examined alternative livelihood opportunities using a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data. Research was conducted in Harinagar, Garaze Bazar, Kultoli, Jelekhali, Kodomtola, Kachukhali, and Dhankhali villages. Data were collected from 104 respondents, including farmers, local leaders, government officials, and NGO representatives. Focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews provided additional insights into the socioeconomic impacts of climate change and adaptation practices. The findings show that 39.4% of respondents were aged 37–46 years, while 78.8% were male. Most households (45.2%) earned between BDT 10,001 and 15,000 per month, and only 1.0% earned more than BDT 25,000. About 83.7% of respondents had adopted alternative livelihoods, with shrimp farming (56.3%) and fishing (54.0%) being the most common. Aquaculture was considered more resilient to environmental degradation by 55.4% of respondents and was perceived as offering greater economic stability despite requiring substantial investment and technical expertise.Water scarcity (67.3%) and soil salinity (59.6%) emerged as major challenges, reducing the viability of traditional crops and encouraging the cultivation of salt- tolerant rice varieties. Furthermore, 72.1% of respondents reported significant impacts of climate change on traditional occupations, prompting many young people to seek non- agricultural employment. Adaptation measures such as mulching (67.3%) and drip irrigation (65.4%) were widely practiced, while NGOs, particularly Shushilan and Care Bangladesh, played a vital role by providing training, financial support, and community mobilization. The study highlights the need for sustainable livelihood options, affordable adaptation technologies, and strengthened institutional support to enhance community resilience.Student ID: 22268001 Supervisor Name: Shams Mansoor Ghani Keyword Coastal areas; Climate change; Livelihood; Socio-economic vulnerability; Munshiganj union; Satkhira district; Farmers community; Climate victims 88
Impacts of Structural Flood Mitigation Measure on Livelihood: Comparative Study of Three Settlements in Tanguar Haor, Sunamganj, Bangladesh Alvi Md. Ragib Nihal Khan Abstract Tanguar Haor is in Sunamgonj, Bangladesh, adjacent to the Indian border. This area experiences flooding annually due to its geographical conditions and location. In the north lie the Meghalaya hills, from which the Haor receives several hill streams. During the monsoon, water from upstream flows north and fills the Haor area. During this flood, villages are submerged by floodwater. Specifically, the water-edge houses face the risk of floodwater and erosion. Every year, flash floods and seasonal floods cause damage to their household, cattle shed, and other properties, resulting in repair and rebuilding costs that impact their economy and growth. To prevent this damage and ensure a good livelihood, every village has a protection wall. Three types of protection walls, brick walls, concrete blocks, and earth-filled sack walls, are seen in the Tanguar Haor area. This is a Comparative study where three different villages are selected based on the types of protection walls; they have. The study examined which type of protection wall is more beneficial for sustained livelihood; this will provide policymakers with vital knowledge for future interventions for flood mitigation in the Haor region. This study uses a mixed-method approach. Three villages, Nichodropur, Solaimanpur, and Anondopur, were selected for the study. where a triangular analysis will be conducted to validate the findings, incorporating the results from the Questionnaire survey, Focus Group Discussions (FGD), Key Informant Interviews (KII), and all points that can be obtained from the FGD, KII, and questionnaire for justification will be justified by creating a link based on the DFID and Rural Housing's Livelihood Framework. Among these three types of protection walls, brick protection walls were found to be the most effective, concrete blocks are moderately impactful, while earth- filled sack walls were the least beneficial to protect villagers’ livelihoods. By applying this knowledge, policymakers and various organizations can understand the results and implement this idea to improve the livelihoods of Tanguar Haor villagers.Student ID: 24168001 Supervisor Name: Shams Mansoor Ghani Keyword Tanguar Haor; Sunamganj district; Flood mitigation; Livelihood; Haor region; Structural flood control measures; Rural development 89
Guided Incrementalism: Informal Spatial Adaptation and the Future of Migrant Housing in Bangladesh Rakesh Sharma Abstract Environmental migration is increasingly reshaping the urban built environment in the Global South. As a common adaptation strategy, migration often occurs when households can no longer cope with socioeconomic and environmental pressures in their places of origin. However, migration to urban centers frequently results in the expansion of informal settlements and inadequate housing conditions. While governments and development agencies often implement formal resettlement programs for displaced and landless populations, these top-down approaches may contribute to gentrification and fail to address residents’ evolving needs. This study explores the morphogenesis of migrant settlements and examines how communities adapt their housing environments to cope with social, economic, and environmental challenges. The research focuses on two settlements in Dinajpur, Bangladesh: Sri Krishnapur Ashrayan Project, a planned resettlement site, and Jogen Babur Maath, an informal settlement. Settlement morphologies were classified, key adaptation themes identified, and spatial patterns analyzed. The findings reveal incremental and diverse housing transformations in both settlements. Dominant housing typologies include setback, aligned, setback-aligned, set forward, and aligned-set forward forms. While these adaptations enhance household flexibility and multifunctionality, they often reduce sociability and accessibility. Sri Krishnapur exhibits more structured but limited modifications, whereas Jogen Babur Maath demonstrates organic growth and stronger socioeconomic adaptation. Social adaptations include horizontal and vertical housing extensions, multifunctional use of space, and independent access to services. Economic adaptations involve livestock rearing, small shops, and home-based enterprises, while environmental adaptations emphasize durable construction materials and improved sanitation facilities. Some interventions, such as toilets and tubewells, address both social and environmental needs. Spatial analysis indicates that highly integrated households tend to follow grid-like layouts, whereas less integrated households exhibit linear arrangements. Persistent challenges include poor drainage, waste management, flooding, drug abuse, and weak governance. The study advocates a quasi-formal housing approach that combines formal planning with community-driven adaptation, highlighting the importance of participatory and resilient urban development in secondary cities of the Global South.Student ID: 23168002 Supervisor Name: Mohammad Habib Reza Keyword Environmental migration; Affordable housing; Community participation; Urban resilience; Sustainable development 90
Assessing Climate Vulnerability and Resilience among Urban Female Adolescents: A Study in Dhaka’s Korail Slum Md. Abu Syed Abstract Access to safe and clean water remains a major challenge in the saline-prone coastal regions of Bangladesh, particularly during emergencies caused by cyclones, storm surges, flooding, and sea-level rise. Salinity intrusion frequently contaminates freshwater sources, disrupting water supply systems and increasing the risk of waterborne diseases. As a result, affected communities often rely on unsafe water sources, leading to adverse health and socioeconomic consequences.This study assesses the coverage and effectiveness of existing safe water interventions during emergencies, examines community knowledge, attitudes, practices, affordability, and preferences regarding water options, and identifies gaps between policy and practice in saline-affected coastal areas. A cross-sectional mixed- methods approach was employed. Stratified random sampling was used for quantitative data collection, while purposive sampling guided qualitative investigations. The findings reveal that access to safe water during emergencies is severely constrained by the limited functionality of key water technologies, such as Rainwater Harvesting Systems (RWHS), Pond Sand Filters (PSFs), and desalination plants. These systems frequently fail due to salinity intrusion, flooding, infrastructure damage, and power outages. More than 99% of respondents reported shortages of potable water during emergencies, with women and children bearing the greatest burden of collecting water from distant sources. Although community-based initiatives, including rainwater harvesting and desalination plants, have improved water access, their effectiveness is limited by inadequate technical knowledge, poor maintenance, and insufficient institutional support. Despite widespread waterborne diseases, many residents do not consistently seek safe water options. While non- governmental organizations (NGOs) play a vital role in establishing water infrastructure, more than half of these systems become nonfunctional during disasters. The study recommends adopting hybrid and climate-resilient water supply systems, protecting freshwater resources, investing in mobile desalination units, strengthening community training and disaster management committees, and improving infrastructure and multi- stakeholder coordination to ensure sustainable and equitable access to safe water during emergencies.Student ID: 18368001 Supervisor Name: Md. Mijanur Rahman Keyword Climate resilience; Climate change; Urban climate resilience; Vulnerable teenagers; Safe and clean water; Waterborne diseases; Rainwater harvesting systems; Freshwater sources; Female adolescents; Urban slums; Korail Slum 91
Women's Vulnerability: Exploring The Condition of Earthquake in Qadis District, Badghis, Afghanistan Shahin Hashemzadeh Abstract Gender roles in disasters often reinforce existing inequalities, exacerbating the vulnerabilities faced by women and perpetuating discrimination. Traditional societal expectations often limit women's access to resources, decision-making power, and protection during and after disasters. The division of labor often assigns men to physically demanding tasks, while relegating women to caregiving and domestic roles hinders women's participation in disaster response and reduces their agency. This study aims to explore the contrasting conditions of women's vulnerability in the context of an earthquake in the Qadis district, Badqis province, Afghanistan. Earthquakes pose significant risks to human life and infrastructure, but the gendered dimensions of vulnerability remain underexamined. By examining the experiences and challenges faced by both men and women in the aftermath of an earthquake, this research sheds light on the unique vulnerabilities and coping strategies employed by each gender. The paper utilizes a mixed- methods approach, incorporating qualitative interviews and surveys to gather comprehensive data. The research examines the accessibility and effectiveness of existing disaster management and response mechanisms in addressing both genders' specific needs and concerns. The study concludes with recommendations to enhance earthquake preparedness and response strategies that address the unique needs and vulnerabilities of both men and women. It emphasizes the importance of promoting gender mainstreaming and inclusive decision-making processes in disaster management policies. By understanding and addressing gender-specific vulnerabilities, policymakers, NGOs, and community organizations can contribute to more equitable and effective disaster mitigation, response, and recovery efforts in Qadis district, Badqis province, Afghanistan.Student ID: Supervisor Name: Keyword Afghanistan earthquake; Qadis district; Disaster management; Gender roles 92
Reality Versus Fiction: A Crunch Model- Based Analysis of The Portrayal of Vulnerability in Bangla Disaster Film Ananna Khan Abstract Film is a powerful medium for shaping audience perceptions and beliefs, particularly in disaster studies, where it can effectively disseminate information on disaster management and risk mitigation to build resilient communities. While the disaster film genre is well- established in Hollywood and other industries, Bangla disaster films remain underdeveloped and under-researched. Despite the prevalence of war films in Bangladesh and West Bengal, few have been examined from a disaster management perspective. This study aims to fill that gap by exploring how the progression of vulnerability is portrayed in Bangla disaster films through the lens of the Crunch Model. Two Crunch Models, real- event-based and fiction-based, were generated for comparative analysis. The study employs a qualitative case study approach, analyzing Bangla disaster films through qualitative content analysis. Initially, a broad analysis was conducted to understand the portrayal of disasters, followed by the selection of eight films categorized into natural and human-induced disasters. The selection ensured inclusivity of vulnerable populations, with a focus on analyzing the progression of vulnerability. Unlike international disaster films that rely on spectacular visuals and sound effects, Bangla disaster films resonate emotionally, evoking a sense of emptiness and melancholy. Real-event-based models provide macro- level insights into systemic and structural factors like historical contexts, governance failures, and socio-economic disparities contributing to vulnerability. In contrast, fiction- based models offer a micro-level perspective, emphasizing human and emotional dimensions. Most films focus on unsafe conditions during the immediate disaster phase, with some referencing past events and dynamic pressures but often neglecting root causes. This study serves as a baseline for future research on Bangla disaster films and highlights the potential of films to shape audience perceptions. It concludes with a call for a multidisciplinary, collaborative approach among stakeholders to foster resilience in Bengal’s challenging context.Student ID: Supervisor Name: Keyword Bangla disaster films; Disaster management; Crunch model; Pressure and release model; Disaster studies 93
Faculty Members’ Selected Publications
2010 Impacts of Climate Change Induced Hazards and Adaptation Processes in Bangladesh: An Overview Tawhidul Islam, M. Aminur Rahman, Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Abstract Living with physical hazards is an everyday issue for the people of Bangladesh because different seasons bring different kinds of uncertainties. Sometimes traditional knowledge and practices (Alam, 2007) help them to adjust to these conditions; in some occasions, these hazards turn into catastrophic disasters causing deaths and bringing unbearable damages in different sectors. In addition to the tangible damages incurred due to hazards, in most of the cases, these hazards injure the internal social organizations at different levels (for example, household, community, and institutional) and affect their assets. Thus, the community resilience is greatly weakened, which makes people susceptible to upcoming hazards. Scientists suggest that climate change- induced threats and uncertainties in the forms of erratic rainfall patterns that result in drought conditions and sometimes floods, abnormal foggy conditions, change in the wind direction and the characteristic patterns of seasons, anomalies in the temperature regimes, and the occurrence of cyclones will bring new dimensions to existing situations. These natural hazards, temperature rises, and sea level rise–induced inundations will contribute to the breakdown of the traditional systems of living; they also bring change in topographical factors (for example, flooding), biophysical factors (changes in the crop yields, runoff, risks of the spread of infectious diseases, changes in the vegetation pattern), and socioeconomic factors (per capital income, health, education, population density) (World Bank, 2001).Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: Community, Environment and Disaster Risk Management Name of the Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited Keyword Waterlogging; Dhaka city; Waterborne diseases; Drainage systems 96
The Role of Union Digital Centers in Reducing Social Inequalities in Bangladesh Md Minhajul Abedin, Muhammad Ferdaus, A. M. M. Mubassher Shah, Md Abu Sayem Abstract Union Digital Centers have been inaugurated to accomplish the vision ‘Digital Bangladesh’ to empower rural people by providing digital services. The study attempts to assess the role of union digital centers in reducing social inequality. It also tries to identify the barriers in providing digital services to the local disadvantaged people. In this purpose, the study exerted a cross-sectional mixed-method approach. Data were collected from 399 service receivers of UDC through questionnaire survey, 16 KIIs and 5 FGDs. From principal component and correlation analysis, it is found that the grassroots people’s easy accessibility, citizen’s empowerment by minimizing information gap, quality service delivery at affordable price and time-cost-visit reduction plays a significant role in reducing social inequality in rural areas. These factors are positively correlated with the effective service delivery of UDCs to reduce social inequality. Lack of awareness, conflict of job responsibility with UP secretaries and weak network connection are the major barriers in providing effective services of UDCs. Still UDCs bring a new dimension in the public service delivery system which empowers the people and reduce social inequalities in rural areas.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journal: Bangladesh Journal of Public Administration (BJPA) Name of the Publisher: 97
2011 Essentials of Higher Education in Disaster Risk Reduction: Prospects and Challenges Dr. Rajib Shaw, Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick, Yukiko Takeuchi Abstract When discussing disaster education, the usual focus in more on the school or family or community education. Very little focus has been given so far to higher education. However, higher education (college and university) is the key to professional development in the subject. Higher education in disasters is still lacking in most countries and regions. In this context, the lessons of environment or the field of sustainable development can provide useful tips. Of equal importance to higher education is not only the curriculum, but the approach or mode of delivery. To develop an appropriate higher education, a system of educational governance is important (COE, 2005). Given the role education has for overall societal and economic development, it is necessary to ensure the responsiveness of higher education to the changing needs and expectations of society. In this respect, it is important to ensure participation of external actors in the governance of higher education and to allow the flexibility to accommodate the continually change needs and requirements over time. COE (2005) made several recommendations for higher education that can be considered as the base of disaster education in colleges and universities. These include: serving the needs and expectations of the society, having appropriate academic freedom, having a process of setting up long-terms goals and developing appropriate strategies for achieving them, providing reasonable scope of innovation and flexibility in research, promoting good educational governance through regional and international networks, and ensuring quality control of teachers and students.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: Local Disaster Risk Management in a Changing Climate: Perspective from Central America Name of the Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited 98
2012 Universities and Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction Dr. Rajib Shaw, Yukiko Takeuchi, Ramasamy Krishnamurthy, Joy Jacqueline Pereira, Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Abstract Education has been there for ages. Need of education for sustainable development is stated as follows: Education, including formal education, public awareness and training, should be recognized as a process by which human beings and societies can reach their fullest potential. Education is critical for promoting sustainable development and improving the capacity of the people to address environment and development issues. While basic education provides the underpinning for any environment and development education, the latter needs to be incorporated as an essential part of learning. Both formal and non-formal education is indispensable to changing people's attitudes so that they have the capacity to assess and address their sustainable development concerns.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction Name of the Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited 99
2013 Urban Risk Reduction Approaches in Bangladesh Dr. Rajib Shaw, Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick, Dr. Aminul Islam Abstract Asia-Pacific region is one of the most “at risk” parts of the world and eventually its cities are the hub of the risks. The underlying reasons for this high risk are rooted in the rapid urbanization. A majority of Asia’s urban growth will be in seven developing countries, which includes Bangladesh as one of the countries having rapid urbanization pace. The rate of urbanization in Bangladesh is over 25 % and the growth rate is more than 3–5 % per year. Similar to the most other bustling cities in Asia cities in Bangladesh are growing along the river-bank, low-lying marshy lands, mining or industrial hubs and steep slopes. Inevitably these cities are emerging as hub of disaster risks. Urban growth and disaster risk are statistically correlated. Disaster risks in urban center are compounded due to unplanned urbanization and unregulated growth in disaster prone marginal areas. Unplanned and uncontrolled urbanization is exacerbating environmental problems and disaster risks in cities of Bangladesh. More than 60 % of urban population lives in four main cities in Bangladesh and Dhaka alone accommodate one-third of urban population and produces 60 % of national GDP. Therefore, disaster in urban areas has severe national consequences in Bangladesh. Eventually, disaster risk reduction from the cities should be the key issue for ensuring overall development of Bangladesh. Unfortunately, like many other countries, in spite of having risk factors, risks and vulnerability to disaster are largely under estimated in urban development of Bangladesh. As an attempt of disaster risk reduction in urban Bangladesh this paper intends to diagnose both geological and climate related urban risks in Bangladesh. At the same time, it aims to examine the existing risk reduction tools and approaches initiated by Government and civil societies in urban areas of Bangladesh.Type of Publications: Book Name of the Book: Disaster risk reduction approaches in Bangladesh Name of the Publisher: Springer 100
Climate Change Adaptation Actions in Bangladesh Dr. Rajib Shaw, Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick, Dr. Aminul Islam Abstract The book outlines the climate change adaptation (CCA) actions in Bangladesh drawing examples and lessons from different projects and programs in the country. The content is based on a selection of available documents, a consultative workshop with the academicians from different universities undertaking higher education on disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation, and the editors’ own knowledge and experience in the field. The book has four parts. Part I gives the details of climate change impacts, providing the scenarios, negotiations, and specific impacts on sea-level rise and the health sectors. Part II focuses on climate change strategy and action plans. Part III covers socio-economic impacts in terms of economic and environmental costs. Part IV focuses on adaptive actions for agriculture, livelihoods, and integrated approaches in agriculture and fisheries. Part V deals with climate-change governance issues. The primary target groups for this book are students and researchers in the fields of environment, disaster risk reduction, and climate change studies. The book will provide them with a good idea of the current trend of research in the field and will furnish basic knowledge on this important topic in Bangladesh. Another target group comprises practitioners and policy makers, who will be able to apply collective knowledge to policy and decision making.Type of Publications: Book Name of the Book: Climate Change Adaptation Actions in Bangladesh Name of the Publisher: Springer 101
Bangladesh Climate Change Strategy and Action Plans Dr. Aminul Islam, Dr. Rajib Shaw, Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Abstract The government of Bangladesh’s Vision is to eradicate poverty and achieve economic and social well-being for all the people. This will be achieved through a pro-poor climate management strategy, which prioritizes adaptation and disaster risk reduction, and also addresses low carbon development, mitigation, technology transfer and the mobilization and international provision of adequate finance. The climate Change Action Plan of Bangladesh is built on six pillars: (1) food security, social protection, health, (2) comprehensive disaster management, (3) infrastructures, (4) research and knowledge management, (5) mitigation and low carbon development, and (6) capacity building and institutional strengthening. The BCCSAP (Bangladesh Climate change Strategy and Action Plan) 2009 will be reviewed and revised as further experience and knowledge are gained in implementing adaptation and related research programs as well as new development priorities that may emerge in future. In total, there are 44 programs.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: Climate Change Adaptation Actions in Bangladesh Name of the Publisher: Springer 102
Disaster, Risk and Evolution of the Concept Dr. Rajib Shaw, Dr. Aminul Islam, Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Abstract Disaster is a function of hazard, vulnerability and capacity. The subject of disaster has evolved over time, and the concept of risk reduction is an accepted trend globally in this regard. A number of recent literatures and reports supported the accelerated paradigm shift from response to disaster risk reduction in different countries. United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR) has promoted the integrated concept of disaster risk reduction through five priority areas, known as Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA: 2005–2015). HFA is considered as the global framework of risk reduction, agreed by UN member states, with specific targets. Since the adoption of the HFA in 2005, a certain progress has been made in HFA implementation by national governments with support from international and regional agencies. At the same time, the need for comprehensive DRR approach, thus HFA implementation at local level, has been strongly recognized. Effective DRR relies on the efforts of many different stakeholders, including UN agencies, regional and international organizations, CSOs, private sectors, media and academics. The collaboration and cooperation among all stakeholders are crucial in order to improve the resilience of communities. Thus, local level implementation and multi- stakeholder collaboration are considered as the key aspects of disaster risk reduction.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: Disaster Risk Reduction Approaches in Bangladesh Name of the Publisher: Springer 103
Climate Change: Global Perspectives Dr. Rajib Shaw, Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick, Dr. Aminul Islam Abstract Climate is changing from its very inception, but the impacts are becoming prominent over last several decades. The trend of temperature change has become more rapid in recent years. Although climate change is a global phenomenon, its consequences will not be evenly distributed. The developing countries will be the first and hardest hit. The impact of climate change will be across the sectors and across nations. Climate change was identified as an urgent global problem that requires governments to unite their efforts to prepare for potential climate risks at the First World Climate Conference in 1979. This recognition led to the establishment of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in 1988 to assess the magnitude and timing of changes and estimate their impacts. The United Nations Convention for Climate Change (UNFCCC) entered into force on 21 March 1994. It enjoys near universal membership with 194 Parties (member countries) having ratified. Climate change adaptation is understood as consisting of initiatives and measures to reduce the vulnerability of natural and human systems against actual or expected climate change effects. The term “adaptation” has been used in the climate change community since early 1990s, but no single definition has been generally adopted among conservation professionals. Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) are broadly understood to be linked in some ways; however, have not yet been taken as a holistically linked complementary set of actions that require collaborative and coordinated action by all concerned stakeholders.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: Climate Change Adaptation Actions in Bangladesh Name of the Publisher: Springer 104
Habitat and Infrastructures: A Localized Approach to Resilience Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Abstract Habitat and infrastructure is central to all the aspects associated with human life and living. While climate change is an all-important issue, adaptation of human habitat and the physical infrastructure remains a key challenge to address. The concept of resilient built environment stems from the idea of lessening disaster impacts as well as quickening the recovery process. As hydro-meteorological disasters are likely to increase in terms of frequency and intensity as a consequence of global climate change, vulnerable community needs a more resilient built environment. But all the technically sound options are not viable for communities with resource constraints. This chapter describes how an approach incorporating local knowledge and skills with realizable technical knowhow can help building a better resilient community. Flood and cyclone are considered in this instance. For flood, the concepts elaborated here are yet to be realized. For cyclone, two realized case studies are presented. The core objective of this chapter is to address the importance and usefulness of looking at the “process” of building infrastructure rather than looking at the “product” in isolation. The “process” refers to involving community in the generation of design ideas and also respecting the local knowledge and skills in the construction procedure thus imparting the real sense of ownership to the community. While adaptation to climate change is the concern, such sense of belongingness by the community can help make it better.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: Climate Change Adaptation Actions in Bangladesh Name of the Publisher: Springer 105
Cyclone And Tornado Risk and Reduction Approaches in Bangladesh Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick, Dr. Aminur Rahman Abstract The physiographical features of Bangladesh coast make it susceptible to cyclones and associated surges. According to the Multipurpose Cyclone Shelter Programme report, 6.4 % of the country is considered High Risk Area where the surge height may exceed 1 m. The country has been devastated by a number of cyclones resulting hundreds of thousands of human deaths. Besides, loss and damage of people’s assets and properties have been extensive. With time, Bangladesh has been successful in significantly reducing human casualties from cyclone and the multipurpose cyclone shelters have been playing a great role in this regard. Another highly effective risk reduction initiative with regards to cyclone is the Cyclone Preparedness Programme (CPP) jointly run by the Bangladesh Red Crescent Societies (BDRCS) and the Government. The CPP can be considered as the precondition for the successful working of the cyclone shelters as one of its major activities is to disseminate cyclone warnings and mobilize the people at risk to cyclone shelters. Mangrove forests along the coast have an important role in reducing the wind speed and the surge impact, which led to taking coastal afforestation program in Bangladesh. The earthen coastal embankments in Bangladesh are primarily meant for protecting agricultural land from regular tidal phenomenon. These can be constructed strong enough to safeguard against cyclone-associated surge the cost of which can be justified only in the case of large investment. Disaster resilient habitat is a new concept which advocates for individual houses made as strong as to withstand cyclones or, at least, to enhance reconstruction and recovery. A pilot programme of the same executed in Bangladesh has been discussed in this chapter. Tornado is an under-reported disaster in Bangladesh the reason of which can be attributed to its impact being localized. Though Bangladesh is considered the only other part of the world outside the United States where strong and violent tornadoes are prevalent, little attention has been given to mitigate the risks. Absences of appropriate forecasting and early warning system as well as lack of shelter provision make Bangladesh the country of highest death tolls from Severe Local Convective Storms (SLCS) like tornado and nor-westers.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: Disaster Risk Reduction Approaches in Bangladesh Name of the Publisher: Springer 106
National Perspectives of Disaster Risk Reduction in Bangladesh Dr. Rajib Shaw, Dr. Aminul Islam, Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Abstract According to Climate Risk Index, Bangladesh is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world. Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to different types of disaster because of climatic variability, extreme events, high population density, high incidence of poverty and social inequity, poor institutional capacity, inadequate financial resources, and poor infrastructure. Bangladesh initiated its actions for disaster preparedness immediately after the cyclone of 1991. At present Bangladesh has National Disaster Management Act-2012, National Disaster Management Policy, Standing Order on Disaster and National Plan for Disaster Management 2010–2015 as key documents guiding the disaster management works in Bangladesh. To implement the documents in ground works Bangladesh has Disaster Management and Relief Division, Disaster Management Bureau (DMB) and Comprehensive Disaster Management Programme (CDMP) under the Ministry of Food and Disaster Management (NPDM, National Plan for Disaster Management 2010–2015, Disaster Management Bureau, Disaster Management & Relief Division, Ministry of Food and Disaster Management, Dhaka). The country also has disaster management mechanism at both national and sub-national levels. The Bangladesh National Plan for Disaster Management is a strategic document to be effective for a certain period of time. This is an umbrella plan that provides the overall guideline for the relevant sectors and the disaster management committees at all levels to prepare and implement their area of roles specific plans (both thematic level and different levels of administrative structure). Furthermore, the Disaster Management Act is enacted by Act No. 34 of 2012 that forms the legislative basis to desirable, integrate, and strengthen the disaster management related activities and to establish an effective institutional framework for disaster management to deal with all types of disaster in Bangladesh.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: Disaster Risk Reduction Approaches in Bangladesh Name of the Publisher: Springer 107
National Perspectives of Disaster Risk Reduction in Bangladesh Dr. Aminul Islam, Dr. Rajib Shaw, Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Abstract National Adaptation Programs of Action (NAPAs) provide a process for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to identify priority activities that respond to their urgent and immediate needs to adapt to climate change—those for which further delay would increase vulnerability and/or costs at a later stage. The steps for the preparation of the NAPAs include synthesis of available information, participatory assessment of vulnerability to current climate variability and extreme events and of areas where risks would increase due to climate change, identification of key adaptation measures as well as criteria for prioritizing activities, and selection of a prioritized short list of activities. Bangladesh National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA) was prepared by Ministry of Environment and Forest, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh in partnership with relevant specialized Agencies and institutions as a response to the decision of the Seventh Session of the Conference of the Parties (CoP7) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The updated NAPA 2009 is well aligned with the BCCSAP and would address the following thematic pillars in terms of identifying short and medium term adaptation measures: (a) ensuring food security and pro-poor social protection of the climate vulnerable people; (b) strengthen comprehensive disaster management programme; (c) climate resilient infrastructure development including sustainable cities; (d) mainstreaming climate change in local and national development; (e) capacity enhancement including research and knowledge management and institutional strengthening and (f) strategic natural resource management as an adaptation response to climate change including wise use of wetlands, rivers, flood plain system.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: Climate Change Adaptation Actions in Bangladesh Name of the Publisher: Springer 108
Reducing The Health Effect of Natural Hazards in Bangladesh Richard A Cash, MD Shantana R Halder, Mushtuq Husain, Md Sirajul Islam, Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick, Maria A May, Mahmudur Rahman, M. Aminur Rahman Abstract Bangladesh, with a population of 151 million people, is a country that is particularly prone to natural disasters: 26% of the population are affected by cyclones and 70% live in flood- prone regions. Mortality and morbidity from these events have fallen substantially in the past 50 years, partly because of improvements in disaster management. Thousands of cyclone shelters have been built and government and civil society have mobilized strategies to provide early warning and respond quickly. Increasingly, flood and cyclone interventions have leveraged community resilience, and general activities for poverty reduction have integrated disaster management. Furthermore, overall population health has improved greatly on the basis of successful public health activities, which has helped to mitigate the effect of natural disasters. Challenges to the maintenance and reduction of the effect of cyclones and floods include rapid urbanization and the growing effect of global warming. Although the effects of earthquakes are unknown, some efforts to prepare for this type of event are underway.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journals: The Lancet Name of the Publisher: ScienceDirect 109
2014 Post-Aila Community Recovery Innovations and Planning Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick, Aminul Islam Abstract In the aftermath of super cyclone Aila in 2009, there was neither adequately or appropriately response planning and implementation from disaster management including relief and rehabilitation agencies, as was the case with the super cyclone Sidr which hit almost same South West Region of Bangladesh in 2007. Cyclone Aila damaged >50 % of houses, affecting ten million people and totally damaged shrimp business—a source of second largest export earnings for the country and collapse of the agro-ecosystem as well which was critical base for livelihood source of the inhabitants. Although government undertakes sizeable recovery operation (USD16.95 million for food, cash and shelter and international community and UN USD84.74 million) for public infrastructure after each disaster but restoration at the vulnerable populations’ livelihood and shelter in particular faces deficient and needs remain unmet. At the same time there was the rethinking about the actual usefulness of post disaster early recovery including livelihood restoration and build back better shelters and possible risk reduction alternatives linked to sustainable development. Recovery resilient issue is emphasized to focus on investment on non- infrastructure resilience, livelihood and knowledge as well as governance to create enabling environment for early recovery. About 7.7 % of the coastal populations are covered by the existing cyclone shelters. The state of habitat in the Aila affected areas, although deplorable provided the opportunity to try out innovations, one such being the concept of the Disaster Resilient Habitat (DRH). DRH called for an endeavor towards disaster/climate proof cluster settlement as the resilient habitat. This effort includes strengthening an entire village and its community together in a comprehensive manner with cyclone-resilient houses and infrastructure so that they are able to withstand winds and storm surges to protect both lives and livelihood assets and even if there is destruction, getting back to life is easier. This chapter will describe how this innovative idea came into being and how it was implemented. The combination of technical expertise and local skill would emerge as creative solution. The DRH is considered a more structurally and ecologically sustainable solution than cyclone shelters. Perhaps in the future huge investments in top-down cyclone shelters can be better utilized in this bottom-up sustainable approach of comprehensive risk reduction.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: Disaster recovery: Used or Misused Development Opportunity Name of the Publisher: Springer 110
In Support of Urban Adaptation: A Participatory Assessment Process for Secondary Cities in Vietnam and Bangladesh Darryn McEvoy, Iftekhar Ahmed, Alexei Trundle, Le Thanh Sang, Nguyen Ngoc Diem, Lam Thi Thu Suu, Tran Ba Quoc, Huẽ, Vietnam, Fuad Hassan Mallick, Rezaur Rahman, Aminur Rahman, Nandan Mukherjee, Ainun Nishat Abstract Vietnam and Bangladesh are countries already impacted by weather-related extreme events. Scientific modelling projections indicate that climate change, and changes to climate variability, will increase risks for both countries in the future. Targeting this challenging contemporary agenda, this paper reflects on the lessons learned from a collaborative research project, funded by the Asia Pacific Network for Global Change Research, which was carried out jointly in the Vietnamese city of Huế and the Bangladeshi city of Satkhira. The focus on secondary cities was intentional as they face unique challenges – a combination of rapid growth and development, adverse climate-related impacts, and in many cases less institutional adaptive capacity than their primary city counterparts. Whilst numerous assessment tool kits already exist, these have typically been developed for rural or natural resource contexts. Therefore, the objective of this action research activity was to develop a flexible suite of participatory assessment tools and methodologies that were refined specifically for the urban context; as well as being easy to use by local practitioners at the city and neighborhood scales. This paper summarizes the research and stakeholder engagement activity that was carried out before presenting the main findings from each of the case study cities (detailing both climate- related risks and potential adaptation options). This analysis is further extended to include a reflective critique of the assessment process, a comparative analysis of the activity carried out in the two case studies, and the ‘South–South’ learning process that occurred between project partners. Key findings are then distilled to put forward recommendations in support of climate change assessment activity in secondary cities across the Asia-Pacific region.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journal: Climate and Development Name of the Publisher: Taylor & Francis 111
2015 Flood Shelters in Bangladesh: Some Issues from the User's Perspective M. Aminur Rahman, Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick, M. Shahjahan Mondal, Mohammad Rezaur Abstract Flood is an integral part of Bangladesh and so is the suffering of the people living in flood-prone areas. Unlike cyclone shelters, very few designated flood shelters exist in Bangladesh; this is because of the difference in the nature of these two phenomena. Flood shelters in three locations along three major rivers were visited, and communities were consulted to address some selected issues regarding the shelters. Three major types of flood shelters were identified for the comparison, which are community shelter, school-cum-shelter, and individual homestead. The range of issues included accessibility to shelters, land availability, protection of lives and livelihoods, basic facilities and services, safety and security of women and children, willingness and priority of potential users, and maintenance and cost-effectiveness. The primary objective of this chapter was to investigate the benefits and shortcomings of the types of flood shelters that are in use and check if any particular type of shelter could be recommended as solution. The findings show that each of the three aforementioned types of flood shelters has their pros and cons, and considering the need and aspiration of communities, one particular type of flood shelter might not be suitable across different geographical and social contexts.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: Hazards, Risks, and Disasters in Society Name of the Publisher: Academic Press 112
2018 Community Perceptions of Flood Resilience as Represented in Cognitive Maps Dr. Imon Chowdhooree, Les Dawes, Mellini Sloan Abstract Community perceptions of flood resilience hinge upon translation of impressions of events and built environment, which thereby influence a community’s ability to resist, cope with and recover from adverse impacts of flooding. Particularly in developing countries, NGOs, often in collaboration with communities, design and fund non‐traditional structural measures to enhance community resilience. This study examines community perceptions of flood resilience in the Haor region of Bangladesh, where communities live on constructed islands, reinforced by structural flood mitigation measures. Wave activity due to riverine flooding places communities at significant risk, especially as NGO funded non‐traditional structural measures intended to increase resilience may fail to do so. Small group meetings with community members were facilitated in graphically depicting and discussing areas of risk and relative safety during flood events. Maps constructed by community groups indicate that perceptions of community vulnerability are shared between generations, and that measures intended to enhance resilience may actually increase community perceptions of vulnerability, highlighting a need for a more nuanced understanding of community adaptation to ongoing risk. Findings identified the use of non‐language dependent tools such as cognitive mapping as quick and effective data collection mechanisms. Incorporating this local knowledge allows for more effective targeted measures, increasing community resilience and better informing NGO practices.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journals: Journal of Flood Risk Management Name of the Publisher: Wiley 113
Factors and Actors for Enhancing Community Flood Resilience: An Experience from a River-Side Settlement in Bangladesh Dr. Imon Chowdhooree, Israt Islam Abstract Enhancing community flood resilience is a critical aspect of flood risk management that requires a systematic process of capacity building through incorporating mitigation measures. The inhabitants of South Rishipara, a riverside settlement of Bangladesh, are accommodating themselves in a flood-prone location through modifying their built environment. The purpose of this study is to conduct a detailed investigation regarding the built environment development and find out roles of different actors and contributing factors for enhancing community flood resilience. This case study-based post-positivist research uses multiple lines of inquiries, which include focus group discussions, transect walks, in-depth semi-structured interviews, pair- wise comparisons and a questionnaire survey, mostly in a participatory appraisal manner to obtain data about community experiences and perceptions. About 66.7 per cent of respondents identified themselves as severely affected by flood before the recent development with increased elevation of land, flood protection walls, reclaimed land from the river, underground drainage system, a new layout of plots and houses of better quality. In the post-development situation, not a single respondent identified him/ her in that condition. “Coordination and cooperation among GOs, NGOs and donor agency” (GO: governmental organization; NGO: nongovernmental organization) and “awareness about the flood vulnerability” were identified as key factors and the NGO was identified as the key actor for enhancing community flood resilience by the survey participants. This research, through exploring the nuanced relationship between built environment development and community resilience, will contribute to address uncertainties associated with community capacities to respond to risks.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journals: International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment Name of the Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited 114
2019 Indigenous Knowledge for Enhancing Community Resilience: An Experience from the South-Western Coastal Region of Bangladesh Dr. Imon Chowdhooree Abstract Traditional lifestyle of depending on the natural process, without trying to altering it, is close to the recent idea of sustainability which refers to an attempt to interlink and emulate natural processes with human activities. The Western-Euro-centric notions of science and scientific knowledge and technologies usually open opportunities to control natural processes with infrastructures to maximize economic benefits. Emphasis on short-term economic growth through the option of controlling or altering natural processes may hinder community resilience, referred as ability to resist, adapt with and recover from negative and devastating impacts of any natural process. Through employing oral history methodology in a case from Bangladesh, this article investigates the consequences of incorporating Western-Euro-centric scientific knowledge and traditional practices based on indigenous knowledge for managing water resources and resulted impacts on community flood resilience. In this case, to protect the lands from seasonal inundation, structural interventions were implemented and it resulted an environmental disaster, where cultivable lands and settlements got suffered from prolonged drainage congestion and water-logging problem. The problem was resulted due to some donor funded interventions on the river system since sixties with construction of polders/enclosures, utilizing Western-Euro-centric knowledge, which de-linked the floodplain wetlands from rivers. Whereas, indigenous approach of managing the tidal waves with temporary structures was scientifically proved its suitability to make those areas free from drainage congestion and water-logging problem. The article ends with a conclusion that, to get a resilient community, we need to combine the benefits of indigenous knowledge and modern technological solutions.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journals: International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction Name of the Publisher: Elsevier 114
2020 External Interventions for Disaster Risk Reduction: Impacts on Local Communities Dr. Imon Chowdhooree, Shams Mansoor Ghani Abstract In any disaster context development may appear as adaptation through adopting mitigation measures for enhancing community resilience. Though the popular discourse of development always includes economic growth, in the context of resilience, this ‘development’ merges with the process of adaptation. But the planning process of conducting this ‘development’ as well as ‘adaptation’ requires more concerns while the process is intervened by external bodies, like governmental, non-governmental and donor organizations. This chapter provides an overview of planning paradigms for enhancing community resilience in a given political and ecological context, based on existing literature. The ‘adaptation’ and ‘resilience’ literature primarily express concerns for enhancing resilience through infrastructure-based engineered solutions and alterations of natural surroundings mostly in the top-down manner. The involvements of externals as well as professionals usually follow the rational planning paradigm that asks experts to select the ‘best’ solution, identifying and defining the problem, fixing goals and objectives, preparing lists of all possible options to solve the problem, evaluating possible consequences of every option. For ensuring the involvement of local communities, the professional-oriented top- down rational planning approach can be replaced by its opposite: bottom-up planning approach which is time consuming, expensive and simple rhetoric and quite impossible to apply in cases where external bodies are involved for development. The post positivist planning paradigm may support the ideas of active and incremental participation of community members within the structure of rational top-down approach through the lens of political ecology which has been developed as an interdisciplinary approach to investigate complex human environment interactions, especially those related to economic development of the third world.Type of Publications: Edited Book Name of the Book Series: Advances in 21st Century Human Settlements Name of the Publisher: Springer 115
External interventions for enhancing community resilience: An overview of planning paradigms Dr. Imon Chowdhooree Abstract In any disaster context development may appear as adaptation through adopting mitigation measures for enhancing community resilience. Though the popular discourse of development always includes economic growth, in the context of resilience, this ‘development’ merges with the process of adaptation. But the planning process of conducting this ‘development’ as well as ‘adaptation’ requires more concerns while the process is intervened by external bodies, like governmental, non-governmental and donor organizations. This chapter provides an overview of planning paradigms for enhancing community resilience in a given political and ecological context, based on existing literature. The ‘adaptation’ and ‘resilience’ literature primarily express concerns for enhancing resilience through infrastructure-based engineered solutions and alterations of natural surroundings mostly in the top-down manner. The involvements of externals as well as professionals usually follow the rational planning paradigm that asks experts to select the ‘best’ solution, identifying and defining the problem, fixing goals and objectives, preparing lists of all possible options to solve the problem, evaluating possible consequences of every option. For ensuring the involvement of local communities, the professional-oriented top-down rational planning approach can be replaced by its opposite: bottom-up planning approach which is time consuming, expensive and simple rhetoric and quite impossible to apply in cases where external bodies are involved for development. The post-positivist planning paradigm may support the ideas of active and incremental participation of community members within the structure of rational top-down approach through the lens of political ecology which has been developed as an interdisciplinary approach to investigate complex human environment interactions, especially those related to economic development of the third world.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: External Interventions for Disaster Risk Reduction Name of the Publisher: Springer 116
Dependency on External Supports: An Addition to Community Vulnerability Dr. Imon Chowdhooree, Les Dawes, Mellini Sloan Abstract In developing countries non-governmental organizations (NGO) often get involved in development activities and provide supports for diminishing vulnerability through improving community capacities. Considering the context of involvement of NGOs, this research through studying two settlements in the Haor region of Bangladesh investigates the community resilience status, more specifically their current expectations from NGOs. Findings indicate that NGOs’ usual projects focus mainly on enhancing food security and eliminating poverty, targeting socio-economic and/or non-structural issues, whereas, communities from flood-prone Haor region prefer to have infrastructure-based development for ensuring permanent protection of their settlement from flood damages. NGOs’ regular projects or programs are small in scale and usually don’t enable communities to act independently now or in the future. Even after receiving external supports for extended periods, communities expect to receive further external supports for further development or improvement which can enhance their flood resilience level. In this way, the ‘incentive-induced development’, as an outcome of organized forms (organizational, technological and financial) of external supports, develops dependency on external supports among these communities. Identifying dependency on external supports is a new addition to community vulnerability. This research contributes to understanding risks and questions the usual practices of providing NGO supports to vulnerable communitiesType of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: External Interventions for Disaster Risk Reduction Name of the Publisher: Springer 117
Designing Spaces with Victims of Humanitarian Crisis: Action Research on Spaces for Children at Rohingya Camps in Bangladesh Emerald Upoma Baidya, Farah Mahboob, Fatiha Polin, Dr. Imon Chowdhooree Abstract The victims of humanitarian crisis, due to series of constraints, usually need to evacuate from their native places and seek asylums in any safer location. The temporary accommodation of displaced population, identifying as refugee camps provide fragments of ‘bare life’, where children of the victim community rarely get opportunities to have an environment suitable for their physical and mental growth. This chapter studies the camps established in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh for temporarily accommodating Rohingya population who were forced to migrate from Myanmar. The child-friendly spaces developed as Humanitarian Play Labs (HPL)s within the camp areas provided the scope for exploring an interactive and community participatory design process for making the spaces culturally sensitive. The pilot process of current research identified three features which were added to existing HPLs: wall decoration (alpona), fabric-made drop ceiling (shamiyana) and bamboo platforms. It was identified that the playful, creative and engaging environments helped children better to manage their traumatic condition, caused by humanitarian crisis experiences. Moreover, retaining their identity through adding traditional features to HPLs was also identified as a crucial aspect of healing through tailored and creative activities and spaces.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: External Interventions for Disaster Risk Reduction Name of the Publisher: Springer 118
Lessons from Humanitarian Clusters to Strengthen Health System Responses to Mass Displacement in Low and Middle-Income Countries: A Scoping Review Anna Durrance-Bagale, Omar Mukhtar Salman, Maryam Omar, Mervat Alhaffar, Muhammad Ferdaus, Sanjida Newaz, Sneha Krishnan, Natasha Howard Abstract The humanitarian cluster approach was established in 2005 but clarity on how lessons from humanitarian clusters can inform and strengthen health system responses to mass displacement in low and middle-income countries (LMIC) is lacking. We conducted a scoping review to examine the extent and nature of existing research and identify relevant lessons. We used Arksey and O'Malley's scoping framework with Levac's 2010 revisions and Khalil's 2016 refinements, focusing on identifying lessons from discrete humanitarian clusters that could strengthen health system responses to mass population displacement. We summarized thematically by cluster. Of 186 sources included, 56% were peer- reviewed research articles. Most related to health (37%), protection (18%), or nutrition (13%) clusters. Key lessons for health system responses included the necessity of empowering women; ensuring communities are engaged in decision-making processes (e.g. planning and construction of camps and housing) to strengthen trust and bonds between and within communities; and involving potential end-users in technological innovations development (e.g. geographical information systems) to ensure relevance and applicability. Our review provided evidence that non-health clusters can contribute to improving health outcomes using focused interventions for implementation by government or humanitarian partners to inform LMIC health system responses to mass displacement.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journal: Journal of Migration and Health Name of the Publisher: Elsevier 119
Scopes of community participation in development for adaptation: Experiences from the Haor Region of Bangladesh Dr. Imon Chowdhooree, Les Dawes, Mellini Sloan Abstract In the disaster-context, adaptation is considered as the process of changing status with effective strategies for reducing disaster risks and enhancing resilience. Planning approaches for adaptation often merges with socio-economic development, applying a top- down, technocratic rational paradigm. Whereas the bottom-up process of planning encourages communities to participate for sharing the power of decision making, incorporating its knowledge, ideas, and concerns. Particularly in developing countries, non- governmental organization (NGO)s, collaborating with communities and governmental organizations, conduct community development projects. The community reactions towards these projects and condition of community participation in their planning process are needed to be evaluated to develop a better understanding about the scope of community participation in the local level development activities for reducing future risks. This case study-based research, employing qualitative tools, studies two settlements in the Haor region of Bangladesh to investigate NGO-driven development projects and their planning process through the lens of community participation. The region is a vast tectonic depression where its inhabitants live with significant seasonal flood risks, accommodating themselves on constructed islands. The empirical evidences are evaluated to identify levels of community participation and it has been found as ritualistic in most of the cases, where the community concerns and demands are ignored through convincing them, manipulating their ideas and providing therapies. It also does not often allow to empower the community to take control over the project, which is considered as necessary in a disaster context to coincide adaptation with development, aiming to enhance community resilience.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journal: International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction Name of the Publisher: Elsevier 120
2021 Indigenous knowledge of mud architecture: experiences of surviving against multiple natural hazards Dr. Imon Chowdhooree, Kanu Kumar Das Abstract Mud architecture as one of the expressions of vernacular architecture illustrates the success of indigenous knowledge of traditional communities. Due to the pressure of industrialization, urbanization and globalization, the trend of using non-traditional measures guided by the Western-Euro-centric knowledge and technologies considers the traditional practices as expressions of backward past, under-development and poverty. Though mud as a building material is usually assumed as a fragile and ephemeral material that cannot survive against natural hazards, the surviving traditional mud buildings are needed to be investigated to know their performances during and after different types of natural hazard incidents. This paper intends to study the available cases of mud architecture of Chattogram, Bangladesh to trace the history of their survival despite of experiencing multiple natural hazards and to understand their status and prospect of resisting hazards. Three individual homesteads are chosen as cases for conducting physical survey as well as engaging inhabitants and local masons of the locality in semi-structured interviews in a story telling mode to know the construction process and histories of experiencing natural hazards. Available literatures are reviewed, and experts are interviewed to understand the causes of their performances and possible ways to improve the quality. Collected information on mud architecture demonstrates their quality of surviving against many natural challenges and this hazard-resilient quality can be enhanced through using contemporary building technologies and materials, promising to co-exist with the global trend. This study as an attempt to reinvent the vernacular architectural heritage endorses the need of appreciating indigenous knowledge for enhancing community resilience against natural hazards.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journals: International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment Name of the Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited 121
2022 Refugee Camps at Landslide Risk: Studying Mitigation Measures Dr. Faruqui Ali, Dr. Imon Chowdhooree, Shegufta Newaz, Muhammad Ferdaus, Shams Monsoor Ghani Abstract Displacement of an ethnic community from its native place due to humanitarian crisis forces them to cross international borders and seek asylum as refugees or stateless persons. Their temporal accommodations as camps are often built on risky or unsafe locations, where they live in bare minimum conditions, expecting to repatriate. A huge number of Rohingyas from Myanmar, being victims of the humanitarian crisis, crossed the international border and are residing in several camps, established in Cox's Bazar district of Bangladesh, where several locations are prone to landslides, along with heavy rainfall and flash floods. This chapter presents the qualitative study of Rohingya camps that explores mitigation measures for reducing landslide risks and their consequences. Empirical data collected from document review, semi-structured interviews, transect walks, and non-participant observations allowed to understand the process of applying the 'low-tech bioengineering' method or a more nature-based resilient method that requires to construct protected terraces along with drainage channels and plantations while maintaining the temporal nature of the built environment. This method, along with practicing non-structural measures such as forecasting, warning, evacuation, and relocation is identified as cost-effective and appropriate to maintain the non-permanent nature since the government directives advise not to build permanent structures, considering the political and ecological context. The positive reactions of the majority of the camp dwellers toward these measures are a testimony of their success which can contribute to the global knowledge of humanitarian crisis management.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: Impact of Climate Change, Land Use and Land Cover, and Socio-economic Dynamics on Landslides Name of the Publisher: Springer Nature 122
Climate Change and Cyclone Risk Reduction Dr. Imon Chowdhooree, Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Abstract Climate change has brought about increased incidences of tropical cyclones and often of greater intensity. Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) practices for adapting to cyclones in some key locations e.g., Bangladesh and the eastern coast of India, have significantly brought down the loss of life due to these occurrences along with the protection of livelihoods and infrastructure in contrast with what has been in previous scenarios. While DRR practices have been largely effective in many instances, some, do not work as desired because of physical and managerial limitations and socio-cultural or economic reasons. DRR practices need to be intertwined with the overall social construct of the cultures they serve as well as being sustainable in the long term.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: Handbook on Climate Change and Disasters Name of the Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing 123
Water Sensitive Urban Design for Enhancing Flood Resilience: A Case Study in Brisbane City, Australia K. M. Ulil Amor Bin Zaman, Dr. Imon Chowdhooree Abstract Brisbane, located on the floodplain of southeastern Queensland, Australia, has a long history of flooding. Since 1841, seven major flood peaks have been recorded at the Brisbane gauge, with the highest level of 8.43 meters occurring in both 1841 and 1893. More recently, the 2011 flood reached 4.46 meters, making it one of the most significant events since the 1974 flood (5.45 meters). The 2011 disaster resulted in 33 fatalities and affected approximately 2.5 million people, 22,000 properties, 7,600 businesses, and numerous transport networks, infrastructures, waterways, and community facilities across Brisbane and the nearby city of Ipswich. The flood was largely attributed to the inability of the Wivenhoe Dam, constructed in 1984 to mitigate flood risks, to contain the excessive rainfall. Following the devastating 1974 flood caused by Cyclone Wanda, Brisbane upgraded stormwater infrastructure, including drains, culverts, and pipes. However, rapid urban expansion into floodplain areas has significantly altered natural hydrological systems. Urbanization has replaced permeable surfaces with roads, buildings, and engineered drainage networks, increasing stormwater runoff, reducing infiltration, and disrupting the natural water balance. As Brisbane continues to grow, with plans for 156,000 new dwellings by 2031, flood risks are expected to intensify. Climate projections indicate more frequent extreme weather events, including prolonged droughts followed by heavy rainfall, increasing the likelihood of flooding. Addressing these challenges requires integrating urban planning with natural hydrological processes. Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) offers a sustainable approach to flood management by incorporating features such as raingardens, bioretention basins, swales, rainwater tanks, permeable pavements, wetlands, and green infrastructure. These measures help reduce stormwater runoff, improve water quality, enhance infiltration, and provide ecosystem services. This chapter examines the Norman Creek Catchment area and relevant planning policies to identify existing gaps and evaluate how WSUD can strengthen flood resilience in Brisbane.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the Book: A Handbook of Waterfront Development and Urbanism Name of the Publisher: Routledge: Taylor and Francis Group 124
Nature-based Resilience: Experiences of Five Cities from South Asia Mahua Mukherjee, Deepthi Wickramasinghe, Dr. Imon Chowdhooree, Chimi Chimi, Shobha Poudel, Bhogendra Mishra, Zainab Faruqui Ali, Rajib Shaw Abstract As in many other parts of the world, the urban areas of the South Asian region are increasingly expanding. While cities today are the heart of commercial, technological and social development, they are also vulnerable to a variety of natural and anthropogenic threats. The complex urban infrastructure, and the ever-expanding population in cities, exacerbate the impacts of climate change and increase the risk of natural hazards. Throughout history, various hydrological disasters including floods, tidal surges, and droughts, and non-hydrological disasters such as earthquakes, landslides, and storms have led to catastrophic social, economic and environmental impacts in numerous South Asian cities. Disaster risk reduction is therefore central to ensure sustainability in urban areas. Although Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are identified as a promising strategy to reduce risk and increase resilience, there appears to be a lack of evidence-based approaches. NbS are measures that can be practiced to obtain benefits of nature for the environmental and community development through conserving, managing, and restoring ecosystems. Against this backdrop, the South Asian cities provide opportunities to evaluate capacities for achieving Nature-based Resilience (NbR) through NbS. This study documents insights from five cities of five different countries of the South Asian region which are subjected to a wide array of disasters: Barishal (Bangladesh), Phuentsholing (Bhutan), Gurugram (India), Kathmandu (Nepal), and Colombo (Sri Lanka). The primary objective of this study is to provide evidence on how NbS are being practiced. Thus, some success stories in cities under consideration are highlighted: restoration of natural canals through integrated development plans and community participation (Barishal), concepts of Gross National Happiness (GNH) and minimal nature interventions (Phuentsholing), “Greening cities’’ including eco-corridors, vegetation belts, biodiversity parks (Gurugram), proper land use planning aims at different disasters (Kathmandu), and wetland restoration and management with multiple benefits (Colombo). These cases could therefore, act as a “proxy” for learning from each other to prepare for and recover from future disasters while building NbR.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journals: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, Name of the Publisher: MDPI 125
How Can Humanitarian Services Provision During Mass Displacement Better Support Health Systems? An Exploratory Qualitative Study of Humanitarian Service Provider Perspectives in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh Sneha Krishnan, Samia Zaman, Muhammad Ferdaus, Md Humayun Kabir, Hafiza Khatun, SM Safiqur Rahman, Manar Marzouk, Anna Durrance Bagale, Natasha Howard Abstract Health services provision in mass displacement settings is a humanitarian imperative and essential to promoting international and regional security. Internationally displaced populations experience a range of issues pre-, peri-, post-displacement and residing in host countries that affect their health and well-being. This study examined links between humanitarian and government health services provision for forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals (FDMN) in Cox's Bazar to consider how improved knowledge sharing and collaboration might better support health systems during mass displacement. We conducted a qualitative descriptive study, interviewing 25 humanitarian service providers in-person in Bangladesh in early 2021 and analysing data thematically. We found that government restricted what essential services humanitarian health actors could provide and FDMN had to undergo stringent screening and referral to receive tertiary healthcare. Concurrently, the government health system was challenged by accessibility, affordability and availability of medicines, equipment, and trained staff. Humanitarian health service providers augmented government responses by working with community groups, recruiting and training Rohingya volunteers, and involving religious leaders. Findings suggest that easing barriers to a fuller range of health services, allowing access to digital devices, and hiring FDMN to support their communities would improve health system responsiveness to the legitimate needs of FDMN displaced around Cox's Bazar. It is imperative to amplify and listen to the voices of FDMN and collaborate in addressing structural and social barriers constraining their access to effective health services, both to increase trust in and responsiveness of the health system.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journal: Journal of Migration and Health Name of the Publisher: Elsevier 126
Perceiving Resilience as Freedom: Experiences from Flood-prone Haor Settlements in Bangladesh Dr. Imon Chowdhooree, Dr. Les Dawes, Mellini Sloan Abstract This grounded theory research utilizes a method of facilitated inquiry to aid in unpacking underlying factors that contribute to acquiring perceptions of resilience amongst adults from two flood affected settlements of the Haor region, Bangladesh. Inhabitants of this region accommodate themselves in isolated and constructed island-like settlements, threatened by unmitigated wave activities during floods. The focus group discussions led to identifying factors affecting perceived flood vulnerability and resilience, before prompting participants to vote on the relative significance of these factors. The results are analyzed and interpreted in explaining communities’ perceived resilience in a disaster context and resilience is communicated as the freedom of choice, which is desired to be achieved by eliminating identified factors of vulnerabilities as sources of ‘unfreedom’. This research primarily contributes to existing theories by introducing the idea of ‘Resilience as freedom’ that will aid to understand the inner reason of community expectations.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journal: International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology Name of the Publisher: IJISRT 127
2023 Re-naturing Cities Through Water-Centric Development: Evaluating a Canal Restoration Project in Narayanganj City, Bangladesh Dr. Imon Chowdhooree, Tasfin Aziz Abstract The concept of ‘re-naturing cities’ promotes nature-based solutions for sustainable urban design; one of those being water-centric development with networks of blue (water bodies) and green (vegetation areas) aims to generate urban areas that support economic growth, strengthen social cohesion, and restore degraded ecosystems. Projects get implemented for revitalizing urban water bodies with multifunctional areas. This context demands to study water-centric development projects for evaluating the success of ‘re-naturing cities’ in terms of achieving sustainable goals. This research analyzes a part of a canal restoration project of Narayanganj City, Bangladesh, for investigating the development process and understanding its effectiveness in achieving sustainable goals. The study employs multiple qualitative tools for capturing users' views (emic analysis) and researchers' views (etic analysis). The combined understanding identifies that the project focuses primarily on adding an aesthetically pleasing element to the urban fabric, overlooking multiple socioeconomic and ecological possibilities of living with water.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journals: Blue-Green Systems Name of the Publisher: IWA Publishing 128
Climate change adaptation through nature-based solution: examining the case of Thakurani Khal of Mongla Port Municipality, Bagerhat Bangladesh Imon Chowdhooree, Tasfin Aziz, Md. Jubaer Rashid, Meherab Hossain Abstract Urban areas, especially in the coastal region of Bangladesh, face environmental degradation due to rapid urbanization, uncontrolled socio-economic activities and experiencing the adverse impacts of climate change. Nature-based solutions (NbS) as options for restoring, preserving, maintaining and elevating natural features or systems are becoming popular for reducing vulnerabilities caused either by natural hazards or human- induced activities. With this understanding, this study aims to explore the need of practicing NbS by studying the condition of a tidal canal (known as Thakurani Khal) and its peripheral areas of Mongla Port Municipality, a coastal and seaport town in Bangladesh. This case study-based research uses multiple inquiries, including focus group discussions, pair-wise comparison, observation, GIS-based mapping, key informant interviews and secondary climate data review, to understand the spatial development of the area and community reactions to the changes in the urban environment. The natural water flow of this canal is controlled by sluice gates that indirectly allowed the dweller to encroach its lands and convert the canal into a solid waste dumping area. These human-induced activities as well as the climate change-induced events (i.e. extreme heat, intensive and irregular rainfall, increased number of cyclones, etc.) have made the adjacent areas prone to waterlogging and drainage congestion. In this context, the revival of the original natural quality of the canal has been identified as an alternative to ensuring an adaptive urban environment. This research highlights the importance of practicing NbS for developing urban resilience in the context of climate change.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journals: International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment Name of the Publisher: Emerald 129
2024 Factors and Actors for Enhancing Community Flood Resilience: An Experience from a River- Side Settlement in Bangladesh Dr. Imon Chowdhooree, Ishrat Islam Abstract Enhancing community flood resilience is a critical aspect of flood risk management that requires a systematic process of capacity building through incorporating mitigation measures. The inhabitants of South Rishipara, a riverside settlement of Bangladesh, are accommodating themselves in a flood-prone location through modifying their built environment. The purpose of this study is to conduct a detailed investigation regarding the built environment development and find out roles of different actors and contributing factors for enhancing community flood resilience. This case study-based post-positivist research uses multiple lines of inquiries, which include focus group discussions, transect walks, in-depth semi-structured interviews, pairwise comparisons and a questionnaire survey, mostly in a participatory appraisal manner to obtain data about community experiences and perceptions. About 66.7 per cent of respondents identified themselves as severely affected by flood before the recent development with increased elevation of land, flood protection walls, reclaimed land from the river, underground drainage system, a new layout of plots and houses of better quality. In the post-development situation, not a single respondent identified him/ her in that condition. “Coordination and cooperation among GOs, NGOs and donor agency” (GO: governmental organization; NGO: nongovernmental organization) and “awareness about the flood vulnerability” were identified as key factors and the NGO was identified as the key actor for enhancing community flood resilience by the survey participants. This research, through exploring the nuanced relationship between built environment development and community resilience, will contribute to address uncertainties associated with community capacities to respond to risks.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journals: International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment Name of the Publisher: Emerald Publishing 130
The Status and Prospect on Nature-Based Solution in South Asia: A Policy-Based Analysis Shobha Poudel, Deepthi Wickramasinghe, Mahua Mukherjee, Imon Chowdhooree, Chimi Chimi, Bhogendra Mishra, Kumar Abhinay, Sudip Mitra, Rajib Shaw Abstract South Asian countries face a disproportionate impact from disasters due to their unique topography, poverty, low literacy rates, and socio-economic status. Human activities, such as unplanned urbanization and poorly designed rural road networks, have further contributed to disasters in the region. The article explores the potential of nature-based solutions (NbS) as a means of addressing these challenges through the integration of green, blue, and grey infrastructure. The analysis evaluates the significance of NbS and examines policies and regional cooperation in Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, highlighting the importance of incorporating NbS into national policies and promoting collaboration among these countries. The study identifies the current low implementation of NbS in South Asia, with limited research in this area. While there is existing policy tools related to coastal zone management, water, forest, and urban development, policies related to NbS should be coherent, connected, and integrated with natural resources, climate change, disaster risk reduction, and socio-economic growth to achieve sustainable development in the region. Overall, the article emphasizes the need for effective policy implementation and research to enhance resilience to climate change and promote sustainable development in South Asia.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journals: PLOS Climate Name of the Publisher: Public Library of Science 131
An Integrated Framework for Waterfront Development to Recognize Nature-based Solutions (NBS) in Urban Areas: Evaluating the Condition of Two Projects in Bangladesh K. M. Ulil Amor Bin Zaman, Rifat Tabassoom Tumpa, Imon Chowdhooree Abstract Nature-based solutions (NBS) often suggest improving the degraded urban environment through the implementation of projects for revitalizing water bodies and adjacent areas. Among various concepts of developing waterfront urban spaces, ‘water sen sitive urban design (WSUD)’ asks for integrated design and management of urban water resources and water cycle, following a holistic approach. This research proposes a framework that assimilates the components of WSUD with the concept of ‘inte grated urban water management (IUWM)’ that mainly focuses on governance, management, and stakeholders’ engagement. This integrated approach emphasizes the need for developing a holistic framework for the management of planning and design of waterfront development projects. The framework includes detailed criteria for water sensitive approach and acts as a holistic checklist for evaluating or designing waterfront development projects. Such comprehensive guidelines that include planning, governance, and design challenges are rare in the current body of literature. To test the framework, the research conducts a comparative study among two waterfront projects in Bangladesh and through a scored evaluation based on the proposed framework, reveals the lack of water sensitive planning, design and management processes of the pro jects, which has narrowed down the scope and the opportunities of practicing NBS through reviving lost urban waterbodies.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journals: Blue-Green Systems Name of the Publisher: IWA Publishing 132
Determining the Climate Adaptive Capacity of Urban Actors: A Case Study of Mongla Port-Town in Bangladesh Md. Jubaer Rashid, Imon Chowdhooree, Tasfin Aziz, Meherab Hossain Abstract In an urban environment, different types of actors (individuals, households, community groups, institutions, governmental organizations, nongovernmental organizations (NGO), community-based organizations (CBO) and public and private organizations, etc.) play critical roles in enhancing urban resilience to adapt to the impacts of climate change. To identify and prioritize aspects of climate resilience planning, this study aims to examine the potential impacts of climate change on diverse urban systems and evaluate the capacities of various actors to adapt to climatic stress. This research selects Mongla, a coastal as well as port town in south-western Bangladesh that faces climate risks including frequent cyclones, storm surges and salinity intrusion due to sea-level and temperature rise, as reported in the National Climate Vulnerability Index 2018. The cumulative scores of these characteristics aid in determining the climate adaptive capacity of each urban actor. The identified 53 actors are grouped into four categories: government (local and national); international/local NGOs, CBOs and associations; community representatives and private sectors and groups and individuals. The group of NGOs, CBOs and associations has a higher overall adaptive potential than all other actor groups, according to the study. When it comes to practicing adaptive capacity, government institutions are in the second-highest position. But, the Khulna development authority, the government agency that is in charge of overseeing all forms of urban development, scored poorly on all fragile urban systems. However, the performance of the fourth group of urban actors is very subpar when it comes to adapting to climatic stress, which emphasizes the need for focused interventions. Variations in adaptive capacities to climate change across different actors are particularly useful for targeting actors with lower levels of climate adaptive capacities in Mongla town. This paper particularly addresses the research gap in assessing the adapting capacity of urban actors in Mongla port-town. Policymakers and practitioners can create and carry out targeted interventions that address the particular needs and concerns of vulnerable actors by making use of the insights obtained from this kind of study, thereby assisting in the development of climate resilience in any urban area.Type of Publications: Journal Paper Name of the Journals: International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment Name of the Publisher: Emerald Publishing 133
A private sector entrepreneurial initiative for displaced women at Rohingya camp in Bhasan Char, Bangladesh Dr. Imon Chowdhooree, Muhammad Ferdaus Abstract The popular discourse of global humanitarian assistance often highlights the importance of empowering displaced or refugee women. Empowerment can be achieved by providing different types of livelihood opportunities for not only enjoying personal success but also bringing systemic positive changes to their communities. Private-sector entrepreneurship interventions to improve refugee livelihoods often target the empowerment of the displaced women. This chapter studies a private-sector entrepreneurial initiative that offers livelihood opportunities to Rohingya refugee women in the camps situated on the island of Bhasan Char, Bangladesh. The entrepreneurial initiative is a center operated by a fashion design house that offers training and manufacturing opportunities to the Rohingya women. The operation of this center faces challenges due to sociocultural problems of the displaced community, high operational cost, and poor performance. This initiative by the fashion design house is government supported and is still at its incubation stage. It is currently not being able to bring much change in society by altering the power dynamics, other than simply allowing refugee women or their family members the opportunity to buy some additional items. This study suggests that the current business model needs modification.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the book: Refugee Entrepreneurship: A Research Companion Name of the Publisher: Routledge 134
2025 The Rohingya Camps: Permanence in Transition Dr. Fuad Hassan Mallick Abstract This studio explores the evolving condition of the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, where over a million displaced people face uncertain futures. Led by Professor Fuad Mallick, a visiting professor in Urban Planning and Design, the studio critically examines the intersection of humanitarian aid, environmental challenges, and long-term settlement strategies. Throughout the course, students analyze the shifting policies and spatial dynamics of the camps, engaging with on-the-ground realities through a field visit to Bangladesh. The course challenges the notion of temporariness in refugee settlements, questioning how infrastructure, governance, and design can accommodate both immediate relief and long-term sustainability. Through research, mapping, and design interventions, students propose strategies that reconcile the complexities of displacement, resilience, and integration. The studio culminates in a final project synthesizing policy, planning, and architectural solutions, contributing to broader discussions on forced migration and urbanization in the Global South.Type of Publications: Book Name of the Book: The Rohingya Camps; Permanence in Transition Name of the Publisher: Harvard University Graduate School of Design 135
Cyclone Sidr and Cyclone Aila Recovery in Bangladesh Dr. Imon Chowdhooree Abstract Cyclone Sidr (2007) and Cyclone Aila (2009) were two of the most devastating cyclones in Bangladesh’s recent history. Sidr, a Category 4 cyclone, struck the south-western coastal region on 15 November 2007 with wind speeds of up to 240 km/h and storm surges reaching 10 meters. The cyclone caused extensive destruction by breaching embankments, inundating low-lying areas, damaging agriculture, and destroying homes, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure. Official records indicate 3,406 deaths, 4,234 casualties, and 55,282 injuries. Around 2.6 million people required immediate food assistance, while the livelihoods of 8.9 million people were disrupted. Total damages and losses were estimated at BDT 115.6 billion (US$1.7 billion), affecting 30 districts. Despite substantial involvement from national and international organizations, long-term recovery efforts following Sidr and Aila remained inadequate. Recovery programs largely focused on short-term measures such as temporary shelters, cash assistance, cash-for-work initiatives, awareness campaigns, and support for existing livelihoods. However, these interventions were insufficient compared to the scale of losses. Three years after Cyclone Aila, nearly 200,000 people in Khulna and Satkhira still lacked adequate food, safe drinking water, and sustainable livelihood opportunities. Many families lived in makeshift shelters for over two years due to delayed embankment repairs. Limited financial resources significantly constrained recovery efforts. Following Sidr, housing losses were estimated at US$845 million, while US$284 million was required for reconstruction. Yet only US$126 million was secured within two years, resulting in the rebuilding of just 5% of destroyed homes. Similarly, post-Aila recovery funding fell far short of requirements. Although several studies proposed innovative resilience-building measures, including improved embankments, hazard-based land-use planning, alternative agriculture, and stronger health systems, implementation remained limited. These experiences highlight the need for sustained investment, long-term recovery planning, and the integration of “build back better” principles to strengthen resilience against future coastal disasters.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the book: Encyclopedia of Disaster Risk Reduction Name of the Publisher: Springer 136
How an Urban River Integrates or Disintegrates a City: The Case of Mongla Town, Bangladesh Dr. Imon Chowdhooree, Tasfin Aziz, Md. Jubaer Rashid, Meherab Hossain Abstract Studying the city-river system usually allows for an understanding of the role of a river in integrating or disintegrating its urban areas and its impact on the life and livelihood of the population therein. The opportunity to cross the river is considered a prime integrating parameter of that system. With this conception, this chapter aims to understand the city- river system of Mongla, a port town in Bangladesh at the confluence of the River Pasur and the River Mongla, especially the impact of the river on the daily life and activities of the inhabitants. The River Mongla has bifurcated the town. It can be crossed using occasional ferry services and small boat rides to avail of the functions of both sides. Through employing multiple qualitative tools, the functional integrity of both sides of the town and its impacts on the lives and livelihoods of the population are identified. The findings highlight the need to develop multiple ways for crossing the river to better integrate it into the urban system, though it cannot be said that the river causes the disintegration of its two parts.Type of Publications: Book Chapter Name of the book: Living with Water Name of the Publisher: Routledge, Taylor and Francis Group 137
Faculty Members’ Selected Research Work
A Comparative Analysis of Different Types of Flood Shelters in Bangladesh Project BriefTime Period: 2009-2010 Fund: DIPECHO Partners in Bangladesh (DPB) This study was conducted for the DIPECHO Partners in Bangladesh (DPB) and jointly with the IWFM, BUET. The overall objective of the study is to conduct a comparative analysis of the effectiveness of different flood shelters of Bangladesh from socio‐economic, cultural and technical point of view and come up with specific recommendations and policy guidelines for such future interventions. The study suggested that the flood prone areas need to be divided into various zones according to the flood risk they face. These zones should be delineated based on flood as well as erosion hazard. There can be three zones high risk zone, medium risk zone and low risk zone. Island chars can be classified as high- risk zone. Attached chars and mainland outside embankment can be treated as medium risk zone and area inside embankment can be considered as low-risk zone. It is recommended that the choice of shelters in different risk zones be as follows. Homestead raising and community shelters should be preferred options in high-risk zone. Homestead raising, community shelters and easily dismantlable schools on raised ground can be options in medium risk zone. School‐cum‐shelter on stilts can be the preferred option in low-risk zone. Embankments with modified design, can be considered as another type of shelter for emergency use. Accessibility of shelters to the main route or the embankment is important. Durability of the structures is necessary for long term utilization; plantations can play a major role here. House construction to reduce flood damages needs attention. Homestead gardening can be encouraged, schools cum shelters need better maintenance for optimum use. 140
Disaster Resilient Habitat in Satkhira Project BriefTime Period: 2010-2011 Fund: UNDP and BRAC The Disaster Resilient Habitat project was an action research initiative focused on designing and constructing a climate-resilient settlement for cyclone-affected communities in Satkhira, southwest Bangladesh. Funded by the United Nations Development Programme and implemented in collaboration with the WASH programme of BRAC, the project developed a model habitat comprising 43 houses and a school. Led by Professor Fuad Hassan Mallick, the initiative used an action research method that focused on building sturdy houses instead of top-heavy cyclone shelters, combining new design ideas, community involvement, and real-world application to improve safety against cyclones and flooding. It aimed to generate scalable, context-specific solutions for disaster-resilient housing and settlement planning in coastal Bangladesh. The project had a tangible impact on improving the safety, living conditions, and long-term resilience of cyclone-affected communities in Satkhira, Bangladesh. Beyond physical infrastructure, the project strengthened community resilience by introducing a planned settlement approach that improved access, drainage, and collective safety. The inclusion of a multi-purpose school also created a community asset that could function as a safe shelter during emergencies. At a broader level, the project generated a practical, field- tested model for resilient housing that can inform post-disaster reconstruction and climate adaptation strategies across coastal Bangladesh. The project has been replicated in concept by the government of Bangladesh and other agencies. The project demonstrated strong internal collaboration within BRAC by effectively linking its field-based Disaster, Environment and Climate Change (DECC) programme with technical expertise in research and design. BRAC’s operational experience in working with cyclone-affected communities in Satkhira informed site selection, community engagement, and implementation logistics, while the research and design team translated these field insights into resilient settlement and housing solutions. This synergy enabled a seamless integration of practice and research—combining community-level knowledge, development operations, and technical innovation. As a result, the project not only delivered immediate benefits to affected populations but also produced a replicable model for disaster-resilient habitat development, reflecting BRAC’s capacity to align its programmatic strengths with applied research for greater impact. 141
Reviewing Training Modules for CPP (Cyclone Preparedness Program of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief) Volunteers Project BriefTime Period: 2022 Fund: Cyclone Preparedness Program (CPP) of the Government of Bangladesh The project on Reviewing Training Modules for Cyclone Preparedness Programme (CPP) Volunteers was undertaken to strengthen the capacity and effectiveness of Bangladesh’s community-based cyclone preparedness system. Funded by the Cyclone Preparedness Programme (CPP) under the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, Government of Bangladesh, the initiative aimed to update and enhance existing volunteer training materials in line with emerging disaster risks, technological advancements, and national disaster management priorities. The review process assessed the relevance, accuracy, and practical applicability of existing and new training modules used for capacity building of CPP volunteers across coastal districts. Particular attention was given to integrating contemporary issues such as climate change adaptation, multi-hazard risk management, gender and social inclusion, disability- inclusive disaster risk reduction, early warning dissemination, search and rescue, first aid, and community engagement. The project involved consultations with CPP officials, disaster management experts, trainers, volunteers, and relevant stakeholders to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement. Based on the findings, recommendations were developed to modernize training content, methodologies, and learning tools, ensuring that volunteers are better equipped to respond to cyclones and other climate-induced hazards. The revised modules are expected to enhance volunteer competencies and contribute to building safer and more resilient coastal communities in Bangladesh. 142
Certificate Program on Humanitarian Crisis Management Project BriefTime Period: 2023 Fund: BRAC This initiative was jointly implemented by the Disaster Risk Management Programme (DRMP) of BRAC and the Postgraduate Programs in Disaster Management (PPDM) of the Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Studies at BRAC University. It focused on the design and delivery of a professional certificate program aimed at strengthening the capacity of humanitarian practitioners involved in the Rohingya refugee response and other emergency contexts. The program covered key thematic areas including humanitarian principles, SPHERE standards, protection and safeguarding, emergency needs assessment, camp management, coordination mechanisms, and project management. The PPDM continues to offer this certificate program on a regular basis as part of its ongoing commitment to professional capacity development in the humanitarian sector. The program strengthened the professional competencies and operational readiness of humanitarian practitioners in Bangladesh and beyond, particularly those working with crisis-affected populations. It contributed to improving the quality, accountability, and standards-based delivery of humanitarian assistance, while also advancing the localization agenda by building the capacity of national organizations and frontline responders. The certificate program was initiated by BRAC, with faculty members of the Postgraduate Programs in Disaster Management (PPDM) at BRAC University working closely in collaboration to design and develop the curriculum, supported financially by BRAC. Since its inception, more than 80% of participants have received direct or indirect support from BRAC. This initiative represents a strong example of internal synergy within BRAC, effectively integrating the organization’s field-based Disaster Risk Management Programme (DRMP) with the academic expertise of BRAC University. The result is an innovative practice– academia partnership that advances professional capacity development in the humanitarian sector. 143
Development of local guidebook on Compound and Cascading Disaster Risk Management in Bangladesh of the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) Project BriefTime Period: 2024 Fund: The Ministry of Environment of the Government of Japan The project titled “Development of Local Guidebook on Compound and Cascading Disaster Risk Management (CCDRM) in Bangladesh” was implemented by the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) with financial support from the Ministry of the Environment, Japan under the Asia-Pacific Climate Change Adaptation Information Platform (AP-PLAT) initiative. The project aimed to strengthen the capacity of policymakers, practitioners, local authorities, and communities in Bangladesh to understand and address compound and cascading disaster risks. Bangladesh frequently experiences multiple and interconnected hazards such as cyclones, floods, storm surges, heatwaves, disease outbreaks, and salinity intrusion. These hazards often occur simultaneously or trigger secondary impacts, creating compound and cascading disaster risks that require integrated management approaches. The project focused on developing a localized guidebook that translates global CCDRM concepts into the socio-economic and environmental context of Bangladesh. Through stakeholder consultations, workshops, expert discussions, and collaboration with government agencies, academic institutions, and disaster management professionals, the guidebook documented local experiences, challenges, and best practices. It provides practical guidance for risk assessment, preparedness, response, recovery, and resilience- building. The guidebook is expected to support evidence-based decision-making and promote climate-resilient disaster risk management at national and local levels in Bangladesh. 144
Matrix of Indicators for the Assessment of Response Capacity at the Municipal Level to Natural and Biological Hazards: Application in Bangladesh Project BriefTime Period: 2025-2026 Fund: Bill Gates Foundation The Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Studies at BRAC University is a key academic partner in the Bangladesh Preparedness Partnership (BPP), implemented by the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center with funding from the Bill Gates Foundation. The BPP promotes a “Whole of Society Approach,” aligned with national policy frameworks, to strengthen coordination among stakeholders from national to local levels. Under this initiative, the department leads a major project titled “Matrix of Indicators for the Assessment of Response Capacity at the Municipal Level to Natural and Biological Hazards: Application in Bangladesh.” The project is co-led by the Institute of Disaster Management and Vulnerability Studies at the University of Dhaka. Its primary objective is to adapt and pilot the Response Capacity Index (RCI) tool—originally developed by the Honduran Institute of Earth Sciences—to evaluate municipal-level disaster response capacity. The study is being implemented in three municipalities—Bagerhat, Kurigram, and Cox’s Bazar—from 2024 to 2026 to assess preparedness and response capabilities for both natural and biological hazards. A five-member research team, comprising three members from BRAC University and two from the University of Dhaka, is conducting the project under the leadership of Dr. Imon Chowdhooree. The initiative represents a significant collaboration between academic institutions to generate evidence-based tools for strengthening local disaster resilience in Bangladesh. The project enhanced municipal disaster preparedness systems by facilitating evidence- based assessments of local response capacity for both natural and biological hazards. It enabled local authorities to identify operational gaps, strengthen emergency planning processes, and improve overall resilience in hazard-prone areas. Additionally, the initiative contributed to the implementation of the Standing Orders on Disaster (SOD 2019) by supporting practical system strengthening and alignment with national policy frameworks at the local level. 145
Message from Key Personal
Disaster Education at Brac University Fuad Hassan Mallick, PhD Professor and Dean, School of Architecture and Design Acting Chairperson, Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Studies BRAC University That Bangladesh should have academic programs in Disaster Management, is quite obvious. The country has long been a disaster-prone country. In instances of the past, like the Bhola cyclone of 1970 and others, Bangladesh was caught off guard and unprepared. In later years disaster management improved significantly. By the early 2000’s Bangladesh was making a name for itself in disaster management and preparedness. Why not then a formal academic engagement. Professor Jamilur Reza Choudhury, himself a name as a leading academic and expert on disasters, having been the team leader in the Multi-Purpose Cyclone Shelter Project (MPCSP) and an authority on earthquakes was the first Vice Chancellor of Brac University. He initiated the Post Graduate Programs in Disaster Management (PPDM) at the university in early 2003. For reasons best known to himself, he asked me to start the program along with leading the Department of Architecture. The PPDM was launched in 2005, after Dr. Iftekhar Ahmed had prepared the curriculum. It was the first formal course of studies in the discipline in the of whole south east/ south Asia region. In hindsight, Prof. Choudhury, had made the right decision for the program thrived. In its 20 plus years of its existence PPDM has progressed from a small teaching unit into a repository of knowledge and information. It has been able to connect with organizations locally and internationally. Our alumni are now well placed in different organizations. The network of students and teachers is extensive and offers exciting opportunities. When it started PPDM concentrated mainly on natural disasters, with time the scope has extended to other types of disasters and hazards and the repertoire of its activities and research, has a wide spectrum now. With the reach of the subject extending further, PPDM is keeping pace. The scope of Disaster Management as an interdisciplinary topic has increased significantly in the last few years. It is now at the intersection of a wide range of subjects. The sciences, the social sciences, technology, planning, architecture etc. As the reach increases, PPDM embraces all. As it stands at the crossroads, disaster education will have to combine practice and theory, to strengthen itself. While there are countless examples of practice, they need to be further placed in a theoretical framework, increasing the robustness of the discipline. The PPDM is just doing that. Gathering it 20 plus years of experience and the wealth of information it has, it is on its way to be a leading discipline, and like its inception at Brac University, where else? 148
The Journey of PPDM Iftekhar Ahmed, PhD Associate Professor School of Architecture and Built Environment University of Newcastle, Australia The idea of the Postgraduate Programs in Disaster Management (PPDM) at BRAC University was initiated in 2003 during the Earthquake Vulnerability Reduction in Cities (EVRC) training course organized jointly by Brac University and the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC) in Rajendrapur, Bangladesh. PPDM was proposed by Prof J R Choudhury, Vice Chancellor of BRAC University at that time and was met with a pledge of scholarship support from Mr Sanwar Ali of Oxfam-BD. At that time, I was an Associate Professor at the Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology (BUET), and I was appointed as a consultant for the curriculum development of the program. Extensive feedback was received from various groups and individuals during the curriculum development stage, particularly from the Disaster Risk Reduction Group (DRRG), a network of individuals working in disaster management-related roles in various organizations in Bangladesh including the Bangladesh Disaster Preparedness Center (BDPC), Care-Bangladesh, Oxfam-BD, UNDP and Jahangirnager University. After successive review stages, the curriculum was approved by the University Grants Commission and PPDM was launched in 2005. Within the last twenty-five years since its inception, PPDM went through several reviews. The first review was conducted by myself and a colleague, Graham Marsh, from RMIT University, Australia, where I was working at that time. These reviews helped shape and improve PPDM’s curriculum, enabling the program to gain its present strength. While there are other disaster management academic programs in Bangladesh, PPDM was the first and foremost, and in some ways subsequent programs were inspired by it. From its inception, a key strength of PPDM was its link with disaster management practitioners, who brought in their valuable practical knowledge and expertise for the benefit of students. Bangladesh is one of the countries in the world most at risk to natural and human-induced hazards, so an educational program like PPDM is highly relevant to develop and provide the supply of much-needed disaster management experts. Therefore, the idea of also running an undergraduate disaster management educational program is relevant in the Bangladeshi context to grow a cadre of young disaster management professionals who would have potential for future leadership roles. They in turn can also serve as guest lecturers and maintain the continuity of PPDM’s practice-based approach. I applaud Brac University for its perseverance and vision in successfully sustaining PPDM over a quarter century and also extending it to the undergraduate level. My sincere best wishes to all the current and future PPDM students, alumni and academics for their mission to make Bangladesh resilient and safe from disasters. 149
Masters and Bachelor Programs on Disaster Management Imon Chowdhooree, PhD Associate Professor, Department of Architecture Assistant Director, Postgraduate Programs in Disaster Management (PPDM) BRAC University The contemporary world is increasingly threatened not only by natural extreme events but also by anthropogenic disasters such as terrorism, war, armed conflict, security threats, environmental pollution, and technological hazards. These challenges significantly affect socio- economic stability. In addition, issues of gender and intersectionality in disaster management must be addressed in a more inclusive and integrated manner. In response to these global and national needs, academic programs in disaster management must cover a wide range of interdisciplinary areas, including humanitarian assistance, peacebuilding, disaster risk reduction, counter-terrorism, security studies, environmental planning, climate change adaptation, risk mitigation and many more. BRAC University has played a pioneering role in this field through its Postgraduate Programs in Disaster Management (PPDM), established in 2005 under the Department of Disaster Management. This program was the first of its kind in Bangladesh and the South Asian region within a university structure, contributing significantly to the development of a practice-oriented academic and research domain. The program offers postgraduate certificates, diplomas, and a Master of Disaster Management (MDM) degree. My involvement with the program began in 2010 after completing a Master of Urban and Regional Planning with a specialization in Disaster Management Planning in Hawaii, USA. Initially engaged in teaching theoretical courses, I later became actively involved in curriculum development. I chaired the committee responsible for revising the MDM curriculum, which was approved by the University Grants Commission in 2022. The revised MDM program introduces five specialized streams: Disaster Risk Reduction; Social Safety and Community-based Adaptation; Human Security and Humanitarian Crisis Management; Climate Change Adaptation and Sustainable Development; and Public Policy and Organizational Strategies. These streams allow students to pursue focused expertise while addressing the growing demand for specialization in the diverse field of disaster management. Building on this advancement, the department envisioned expanding into a full-fledged academic unit by introducing an undergraduate program. At the same time, to reflect this broader scope, the department proposed a new identity: the Department of Disaster Management and Environmental Studies (DMES). The department aims to offer academic programs focused on designing resilient social and built environments, as well as conserving and restoring natural ecosystems through mitigation measures, adaptation strategies, risk-reduction technologies, and humanitarian standards. 150
These programs address a wide range of natural and human-induced hazards, environmental degradation, and emerging global threats. Its vision is to provide internationally recognized, high- quality education in the fields of hazard science, disaster management, disaster risk reduction, security, climate change, environmental science, and humanitarian assistance. To achieve this vision, a curriculum committee—chaired by me—was formed to develop the Bachelor’s program. The curriculum has been designed to ensure that all graduates acquire a comprehensive understanding of disaster management, along with in-depth knowledge in a specialized field. The three areas of specialization are: Humanitarian Response, Climate Change Studies, and Environmental Risk Reduction Technology. As long as communities around the world continue to require assistance and support, there will remain a strong demand for professionals in humanitarian and disaster management. Graduates will have career opportunities in administration, research, fundraising, grant management, training, consultancy, advocacy, relief operations, mediation, peacebuilding, risk reduction, economic development, planning, and infrastructure design at both national and international levels. They will also be well-positioned to assume leadership roles such as program directors, coordinators, planners, policymakers, and facilitators of humanitarian and emergency response initiatives. 151
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E D I T E D B Y I M O N C H O W D H O O R E E , P H D , M U H A M M A D F E R D A U S , S A D I A S A I M A , M A H I A F A R S U M I S L A M A N D F A R A H I S L A M A E S H A