Bangladesh is looking to the Netherlands' globally acclaimed expertise in water management to enhance its long-term flood management strategy. State Minister for Water Resources Forhad Hossain Azad highlighted this in an interview with BSS, emphasizing the value of Dutch experience for a riverine country like Bangladesh. The issue was discussed at a recent seminar organized by the Embassy of the Netherlands, where stakeholders exchanged views on flood control, drainage, and water conservation.
Collaboration for Resilience
Azad noted that the government is increasingly focusing on sustainable water management and climate resilience to reduce flood risks and improve water resource management. He mentioned ongoing efforts to incorporate Dutch expertise into Bangladesh's long-term plans for a more effective and resilient flood management system. This collaboration builds on a 1977 understanding signed by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman with the Government of the Netherlands.
Immediate and Long-term Measures
In response to recent floods in Chattogram and Sylhet divisions, the government has stockpiled approximately 13 lakh geo-bags for the repair of flood-damaged embankments. Over 700,000 geo-bags have already been supplied for rapid repairs, with an additional 650,000 geo-bags and 65,000 synthetic geo-bags kept in reserve. The state minister assured that all leave for officials and employees of his ministry has been canceled, and engineers are stationed in the field to respond immediately to reports of waterlogging or embankment damage.
Azad mentioned that emergency repairs to major embankments are expected to be completed within the next 15 days. He also highlighted the government's commitment to modernizing and strengthening the country's future disaster management system, with coordinated efforts by field-level officials, local administrations, public representatives, and the people to minimize flood losses.
