Bangladesh ranks among the most disaster-prone nations globally, frequently experiencing natural disasters such as cyclones, floods, and landslides. Over the years, the country has managed to establish a comprehensive disaster management framework. A fundamental component of this framework is the Standing Orders on Disaster (SoD), which was initially introduced in 1997 and has undergone several revisions, with the most recent update occurring in 2019.
The SoD outlines a thorough plan for disaster management categorizing disaster management into three distinct phases: Pre-disaster, during disaster, and post-disaster. It delineates specific roles and responsibilities among various governmental and non-governmental organizations.
In addition, it aligns with international best practices, particularly the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, which prioritizes mitigation and preparedness over mere response. The framework also establishes a clear command and control structure, ensuring a well-defined line of authority from the central government down to local entities.
The focus on early warning systems, especially in coastal regions vulnerable to disasters, is a notable strength of the SoD. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) and other relevant organizations are responsible for issuing early warnings, which are communicated to local communities to facilitate timely evacuations and enhance disaster preparedness.
While the theoretical framework is robust, its practical application encounters numerous obstacles. The initiative aspires to establish a cohesive network; however, ministries, agencies, and local governments have historically functioned in isolation. A pertinent example is the response to Cyclone Amphan in 2020, where overlapping duties and communication delays among agencies hindered timely relief efforts.
Additionally, the hierarchical structure of the SoD complicates situations that necessitate swift, on-the-ground decision-making. Local officials often refrain from taking initiative without prior approval from higher authorities, resulting in delays during critical disaster responses.
Despite the emphasis on decentralization, local disaster management committees, particularly at the union and upazila levels, frequently face significant resource limitations. These constraints encompass insufficient funding, a lack of technical equipment, and inadequate human resources. Such resource shortages become particularly acute during large-scale disasters when local governments are inundated.
Although the SoD underscores the importance of early warning systems, the flow of real-time information among departments, local authorities, and communities is often sluggish. The application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and big data analytics for disaster tracking and response coordination remains limited. Regular disaster preparedness exercises and community-level simulations remain inadequate, particularly in remote or resource-limited regions.
While the theoretical framework is robust, its practical application encounters numerous obstacles
The implementation of the SoD also varies across Bangladesh, with certain areas, especially coastal regions prone to frequent cyclones, exhibiting more effective disaster management systems. Certain areas, particularly northern Bangladesh, where flooding poses a significant threat, often receive inadequate attention and resources. For example, regions such as Chittagong and Khulna may boast well-developed cyclone shelters and evacuation strategies, yet the flood-prone northern territories often suffer from insufficient infrastructure and lack effective early warning systems.
Local officials are often compelled to await authorization from higher authorities before they can mobilize resources or implement emergency measures. This situation results in lost opportunities for timely intervention, particularly during swiftly developing disasters such as flash floods or landslides.
To identify the shortcomings within Bangladesh's SoD, it is beneficial to draw comparisons with international disaster management frameworks. Nations like Japan and India provide valuable insights. Japan's disaster management system is characterized by centralized coordination and sophisticated technological solutions. Moreover, Japan places a strong emphasis on public education and community-based disaster management, ensuring a high level of preparedness at the local level. India has a specialized team capable of rapid deployment to disaster-affected areas, managing crises such as the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami and more recent cyclones.
In light of the current challenges and lessons learned globally, it is possible to formulate strategies aimed at enhancing the disaster management system. The establishment of unified coordination platforms can serve as a central hub for coordination, integrating real-time data from diverse stakeholders. This digital platform would facilitate the instantaneous sharing of information regarding ongoing disasters, available resources, and urgent needs.
The formation of joint response teams, comprising representatives from government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector, can play a vital role. Investments in satellite-based monitoring systems, automated alert mechanisms, and mobile applications for real-time updates are also critical. Additionally, the application of GIS and data analytics can significantly improve predictive capabilities and enable tailored responses to the specific needs of different regions.
In addition to bolstering local resources, it is imperative to actively involve community-based organizations in disaster management planning and execution. Empowering local disaster management committees with the authority and resources to make independent decisions during emergencies can also be highly beneficial. Furthermore, it is crucial to ensure equitable distribution of resources and training across all regions, with particular focus on vulnerable and underserved communities.
By prioritizing the enhancement of coordination mechanisms, technological infrastructure, local capacity building, community-based management, bureaucratic efficiency, and addressing regional inequalities, Bangladesh can markedly improve its disaster management capabilities.
Dr Mohammad Kamrul Hasan is a Public Administration Researcher and Practitioner.
