The Directorate of Technical Education (DTE) has instructed 161 government Technical Schools and Colleges across Bangladesh to relocate valuable institutional assets to safer places and take emergency preparedness measures as flood situations are feared to further worsen. The directive was issued through an order by the Directorate's Vocational-1 branch.
Flood Situation Worsening
Continuous rainfall triggered by the monsoon and heavy to very heavy downpours in India's Tripura, West Bengal, Assam, and Meghalaya have caused rapid rises in water levels in rivers across northern Bangladesh, Sylhet division, Mymensingh, Rangpur, and the districts of Feni and Noakhali, inundating low-lying areas. The Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC) reported that water levels in most rivers are already flowing above the danger mark, while hilly regions remain at risk of landslides.
Emergency Measures Issued
In view of the evolving situation, the DTE asked principals of all Technical Schools and Colleges to immediately implement four emergency measures. Valuable laboratory equipment, scientific and technical instruments, computers, library books, students' furniture, and important office documents are to be shifted to the second or third floors of institutional buildings to protect them from possible floodwaters.
Staff to Remain Present
The order also said that teachers, officers, and employees should not be granted any optional leave during the emergency period except in cases of urgent necessity or medical reasons. All concerned have been asked to remain present at their respective workplaces to ensure effective coordination.
Forming Emergency Response Cells
The DTE further directed every institution to form a local emergency disaster response cell to closely monitor the situation. In case of any emergency, the institutions have been instructed to immediately inform the local administration and the respective divisional regional director's office.
Preparedness for Temporary Shelters
The order also asked institutions in flood-prone areas to remain prepared to serve as temporary shelters for local residents if required, in line with instructions from the district and upazila administrations.
Why This Matters
The directive underscores the urgency and severity of the flood situation in Bangladesh. Protecting valuable institutional assets and ensuring the safety of students and staff are critical in mitigating the impact of the floods. The preparedness measures also highlight the role of educational institutions in disaster response and community support.
