Cyclone Death Cut
Bangladesh a model
Says Jamilur Reza Choudhury
Bangladesh has achieved significant success in reducing the number of people killed in cyclones and storm surges, claimed Professor Jamilur Reza Choudhury, vice-chancellor of the University of Asia Pacific.
"Bangladesh is regarded as a success story by the international community as it has been quite efficient in managing disasters such as cyclones and storm surges. We are also one of the first countries to have a separate ministry for disaster management," he added.
He was speaking at the 61st founding anniversary of the Asiatic Society of Bangladesh.
Jamilur Reza Choudhury, also former adviser to a caretaker government, further said aside from identifying vulnerable buildings and retrofitting them to resist earthquakes or cyclones, it is important to raise public awareness through education and research.
"We should also focus on constructing a network of shelters to prevent loss of human life during storm surges and cyclones. Mitigating the effects of storm surges on the country can make a significant impact in ensuring sustainable development," he said in his lecture on disaster risk management.
It is comforting to learn that the intensity of effects of cyclones and storm surges in Bangladesh has been reduced, said Finance Minister AMA Muhith.
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