That Bangladesh is likely to face flooding in July and August, according to forecasts, should not be a surprise. We have long known that our geography and climate, in addition to the adverse effect of climate change, make floods inevitable for our nation.
What remains surprising, and unacceptable, is how often we remain unprepared despite knowing what is coming.
Floods, beyond being natural events, have long been a test for our governance. Each year, families lose homes, crops are destroyed, and livelihoods are disrupted.
Each year, relief arrives, but too late and too little. The cycle of damage and recovery continues, while prevention and preparedness remain neglected.
Suffice to say, this is not a solution.
Preparedness must begin before the waters rise. From strengthening embankments to clearing drainage systems to ensuring shelters are stocked and accessible. From mobilizing local authorities to identify vulnerable communities to coordinating evacuation plans.
In addition, we must also ensure that relief funds are transparent and reach those who need them most, rather than being lost to corruption or inefficiency.
Technology and data must also play a crucial role. Early warning systems must be expanded and communicated effectively, not buried in bureaucratic channels.
Simultaneously, we need more investment in resilient infrastructure across the country, from roads, schools, and hospitals, where they are needed most, not where the most headlines are generated.
Bangladesh has lived with floods for centuries, but living with them should not mean suffering from them. Preparedness is cheaper than recovery, and prevention saves lives. The government must treat the coming floods not as an annual inconvenience but as a national priority.
