Country observes World Meteorological Day

With the country observing World Meteorological Day on Thursday, the meteorology department of Dhaka University reaffirmed its commitment to producing skilled meteorologists so they can contribute to relevant sectors. Though Bangladesh is a disaster-prone country, it lacks professional meteorologists and adequate data to predict and deal with natural calamities. With a view to bridging the gaps, the university launched the meteorology department in August last year. The department’s chairperson Prof Dr Towhida Rashid told the Dhaka Tribune: “The department will focus on producing skilled meteorologists who will be helping mitigate natural disasters.” Prof Dr Mahbuba Nasreen, director of the university’s Institute of Disaster Management and Vulnerability Studies, said: “Weather forecast apart, the meteorology department will help track climate change and take measures accordingly.”

World Meteorological Day

World Meteorological Day will be observed across the world on Thursday under the theme of “Understanding Clouds”. In observance of the day, Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) will be holding a three-day long programme starting Thursday at its office in Agargaon of Dhaka, while the BMD staff will hold a rally at 7am. An exhibition of weather forecasting instruments will be held from 11am to 2pm on its premises, while a seminar will be organised on Saturday.