Project Title: Strengthening Capacity for Sustainable Disaster Management Network by involving multi-sectoral platform Project Period: 17 January, 2024– 16 January, 2025 (12 month)
- Project Activities and Accomplishments
Bangladesh’s historical narrative, both before and after its independence, is heavily influenced by a range of disasters, largely driven by natural hazards. Situated near the Bay of Bengal, the nation faces the frequent threat of tropical cyclones that originate in the Indian Ocean. These powerful storms intensify as they approach the Southeast Asian region, with Bangladesh being one of the most affected countries. Storms are the most common disaster type encountered by the nation and have historically caused widespread devastation. The geographical makeup of Bangladesh, characterized by its extensive river delta systems and a monsoon climate, significantly heightens the risk of flooding. These floods rank as the second most common disaster affecting the country, often exacerbated by storm surges associated with cyclones. In addition to these challenges, Bangladesh is also vulnerable to landslides that typically occur in the wake of storms and heavy rainfall, alongside other hazards like earthquakes, extreme temperatures, and widespread epidemics that can arise in the aftermath of such disasters. The impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly apparent, further exacerbating Bangladesh’s susceptibility to these hazards.
A-PAD Bangladesh initiated its project in January 2023, with ongoing efforts continuing from January 17, 2025, aimed at enhancing capacity in disaster management. The organization engages with various sectors, including local communities, community leaders, stakeholders, and government officials, through continuous training sessions focused on disaster management. To facilitate these training programs, A-PAD Bangladesh staff organized small community meetings to share insights on disaster preparedness and to introduce participants to the activities of A-PAD Bangladesh. The organization operates across eight divisional areas.
In each division, there is one health worker responsible for conducting home visits to raise awareness within the local community regarding fundamental disaster management issues. These health workers also disseminate crucial information concerning government directives or any disaster-related announcements to the community. As of May 2025, A-PAD Bangladesh has successfully benefited a total of 3,464 individuals.
A-PAD Bangladesh also participated in coordination meetings held in the eight divisions at the Office of the Deputy Commissioner. These meetings included various NGOs that presented their activities and discussed future initiatives in collaboration with government bodies and NGO partners.
1. Strengthening of disaster risk reduction and disaster response system functions through the Emergency Disaster Management Coordination Center | ||
Activities | （ Outcome 1 ） The Emergency Disaster Management Coordination Center operated under this project will function as a disaster response base in each region, leading to the disaster risk reduction in the community and the strengthening of its disaster response system.: | Project Status: Achievements vs Outcome: If the activity is behind the schedule, please write the reason. |
1-1 Operation of Emergency Disaster Management Coordination Centers Target：Local communities 10 people×25 days×8 divisions×12 months =24,000 people | 【Indicators of Outcome】 1-1 The Emergency Disaster Management Coordination Center will be used for coordination meetings among partner organizations and relevant stakeholders during normal times, and will also serve as a center for health and public health guidance for the local residents. In the time of emergency, health services will be provided by emergency health workers. The Emergency Disaster Management Coordination Center will be used by 24,000 local residents (annual average) in the target area. (Indicator：number or visitors, record of services provided) 1-2 Through the Disaster Management Awareness Program, community residents will receive the latest disaster information and knowledge on how to respond to disasters, and people’s awareness of disaster prevention and response will be increased. （Indicator：Community disaster preparedness report） | Total 2,335 people visited to the Disaster Management Coordination Center to discuss about disaster preparedness and health related issues. Dhaka: 256 Persons Cox’s Bazar: 270 Persons Pabna: 280 Persons Bagerhat: 284 Persons Patuakhali: 310 Persons Habiganj: 320 Persons Rangpur: 315 Persons Netrokona: 300 Persons Total = 2,335 Persons |
1-2 Disaster Management Awareness Program Target：Local communities, Community leaders, Local NGOs, Private company workers, government officials 15 people × 8 divisions × 4 times ×12 months =5,760 people | A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Disaster Management Awareness programs at the 8 divisional areas where 487 persons have participated. Total 4 times training organized at each divisional areas. Dhaka:15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60 Participants Cox’s Bazar: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60+2=62 Participants Pabna: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60+2=62 Participants Bagerhat: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60+1=61 Participants Patuakhali: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60 Participants Habiganj: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60 Participants Rangpur: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60 Participants | |
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| Netrokona: 15 Participants x 4 Sessons= 60+2=62 Participants |
2. Expansion of disaster management network to improve community vulnerability | ||
| （Outcome 2）The network of NPF will be expanded and the capacity of each region for disaster prevention and response will be strengthened. |
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2-1 Network Partner Meeting Target ： Local communities, Community leaders, Local NGO, Private Company Workers, Government officials 50 people × 5 villages × 8 divisions = 2,000 people | 【Indicator of Outcome】 2-1 Strategies, mechanisms, and action plans for disaster reduction cooperation are developed in each region through discussions at network partner meetings, and a framework for disaster reduction cooperation is established. （Indicator：Strategic Plan） 2-2 MOUs signed with at least 5 new organizations, including private companies, in A-PAD Bangladesh NPF to expand the network （Indicator：number of new MOUs signed） 2-4 Resources possessed by A-PAD BGD partner organizations are provided in emergency disaster response, and play the role of that organization in times of emergency. (Indicator：List of resources such as supplies, human resources and donations provided by partner organizations for emergency disaster response） | A-PAD Bangladesh organized Network Partner Meeting at Habiganj. Total 253 Participants joined the Network Partner Meeting. 10 May 2025, Siddheswari, Total Participants 50 Participants 12 May 2025, New Eskaton, Total Participants 50 13 May 2025, Nayatola, Total Participants 50+2=52 Participants 14 May 2025, Shantinagar, Total Participants 50 15 May 2025, Malibagh, Total Participants 50+1=51 Participants
In response to Dhaka’s escalating vulnerability to disasters such as floods, water logging, urban fires, earthquakes, and the challenges posed by rapid and unplanned urbanization, Community Initiative Society (CIS) successfully organized a transformative five-day Networking Partners Meeting. This event was instrumental in strengthening disaster management efforts within the city and brought together a diverse and influential group of stakeholders, including local government officials, NGOs, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and community leaders. The meeting functioned as a critical platform for robust knowledge exchange, the sharing of best practices, and valuable insights drawn from firsthand experiences across various sectors and regions. Key |
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| objectives included not only the establishment of strong and sustained partnerships but also the mobilization of essential financial and human resources, culminating in a comprehensive disaster management plan tailored specifically to address Dhaka’s unique urban challenges. Participants passionately targeted community-based risk reduction, the development of early warning systems, and the crucial inclusion of vulnerable populations—such as women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. The discussion also underscored the urgent need for climate change adaptation and the enhancement of urban infrastructure and drainage systems. This meeting marked a significant milestone in advancing a resilient, inclusive, and coordinated approach to disaster preparedness and response in Dhaka. |
2-2 Disaster Preparedness Campaigns Target：Partner organizations and local communities 50 people × 2 times × 8 divisions = 800 people |
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2-3 Network Partners Capacity Strengthening (DRR) Target ： Partner organizations 20 people × 2 organizations × 2 times × 8 divisions = 640 people | A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Networking Partner Capacity Strengthening DRR at Pabna and Netrokona where 82 persons have participated from 2 Organizations.
12-13 May 2025, Pabna, Total Participants 40+2=42 Participants 13-14 May 2025, Netrokona, Total Participants 40 Participants |
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| Pabna district in Bangladesh faces significant vulnerabilities to various natural and man-made disasters, including floods, cyclones, thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and fires. In light of these risks, the Community Initiative Society (CIS) organized a two-day training workshop aimed at bolstering emergency response capacity before, during, and after disasters. The program, Networking Partner Capacity Strengthening for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), engaged community members, leaders, and representatives from both local and national NGOs in Pabna. The workshop focused on enhancing participants’ understanding of local disaster risks while building their capacity for effective emergency response and DRR. On the first day, discussions centered on the types, causes, and impacts of prevalent disasters in Bangladesh, such as floods, cyclones, fires, and snakebites. Participants also learned about essential emergency response strategies, including first aid, evacuation procedures, and fire safety practices. The second day concentrated on long-term preparedness, stressing the principles of DRR, the significance of community-based disaster management, and the importance of inclusive, locally led planning. Sessions encompassed vital topics such as climate change adaptation, early warning systems, institutional strengthening, and the crucial need for partnership building among NGOs, government bodies, and communities. Practical exercises and interactive discussions not only reinforced the learning experience but also fostered collaboration, ultimately striving for a more resilient and disaster-ready society. Netrakona district, particularly Barhatta upazila, is one of the most disaster-prone areas in Bangladesh, frequently affected by cyclones, tidal floods, erratic rainfall, cold waves, arsenic |
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| contamination, and tornadoes due to its geographical location and weather conditions. To enhance local disaster preparedness and emergency response capacity especially in light of recent challenges like heat waves and floods Community Initiative Society (CIS) conducted a two-day training workshop on Networking Partners Capacity Strengthening in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) on 13–14 May 2025 in Barhatta, with 40 participants from various NGOs. These included representatives from BNPS, focused on child marriage and women’s development, and Dam Foundation, working on economic resilience for vulnerable coastal populations. The workshop addressed emergency response, flood preparedness, medical aid during disasters, and challenges like water scarcity and lack of public awareness. Discussions also covered past experiences, such as CIS’s emergency support during floods and fires in Barhatta. |
2-4 Seminar for Developing New Disaster Prevention Solutions Target ： NGO, Disaster prevention related government organizations, Private sector personnels 30 people （ 2days ） × 8 divisions × 2 times = 480 people | A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Seminar at Rangpur where 30 persons have participated.
14-15 May 2025, Rangpur, Total Participants 30+2= 32 Participants
The primary goal of the seminar was to address the unique disaster challenges of the Rangpur region particularly floods, earthquakes, cold waves, and seasonal storms by promoting innovative, sustainable, and community-based solutions to enhance preparedness, response, and recovery. Discussions |
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| began with an overview of Rangpur’s vulnerability to disasters, emphasizing how recurring floods during monsoon seasons, severe cold waves in winter, and occasional seismic activity continue to affect both lives and livelihoods, particularly among rural and marginalized communities. Experts and speakers from across sectors explored several innovative strategies, including the use of technology for early warning systems, geospatial hazard mapping, and mobile applications that disseminate emergency alerts and guidance. The introduction of solar-powered mobile warning units and community loudspeakers was also discussed as a low-cost, practical way to reach remote or off-grid communities. Community-based solutions were a major focus of the seminar, with several local success stories presented such as women-led volunteer groups that operate as first responders during floods, and school- based safety clubs that regularly conduct evacuation drills. Participants were given hands-on training in emergency preparedness, including first aid, search and rescue simulations, and fire safety. |
2-5 International Symposium on DRR Target ： Government, Local government, private company, NOG, partner organization, representative of A-PAD member countries, etc. 200 people |
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3. Practical training to improve resilience of local communities | ||
| （ Outcome 3 ） Contribute to improving the disaster resilience of local communities through practical training. |
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3-1 Disaster response capacity building of local community level in Health and hygiene field | 【Indicator of Outcome】 3-1 a) Establish networks of community leaders who can lead disaster response and emergency health response in all districts of Bangladesh. （Indicator：Number and the List of community leaders for disaster response/emergency health in each 8 districts.） |
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3-1 a) Workshop on Disaster Management and Emergency Health Response | A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Workshop on Disaster Management and Emergency Health Response at Cox’s Bazar where 30 persons have participated. | |
Target ： Local residents, Community leaders, Local NGO workers 25 people （ 2 days ） × 8 divisions × 2 times = 400 people | b) Networks of human resources with the skills and know-how to respond to health emergencies will be established in all districts of Bangladesh to provide health services to the local residents in times of emergency. （Indicator：Data of NGO health personals who can respond in emergency. Number of residents who received the services in the cases of activities during emergency disaster in each 8 districts.）
3-2 a) Disaster preparedness training and drills will be documented in a manual, and women, youth groups, and local stakeholders who participate in the drills will be | 12-13 May 2025, Cox’s Bazar, Total Participants 25+5=30
The workshop brought together 30 participants, including government officials, NGO representatives, and professionals from various sectors. The training focused on enhancing understanding of Disaster Risk Management (DRM) by providing practical tools and promoting risk reduction strategies. On Day 1, Emergency Health Officer from CIS Cox’s Bazar, led a session on emergency health response, paying particular attention to the recent heatwaves. His guidance included health awareness actions before, during, and after heatwaves, underscoring the critical need for mental preparedness in crises. On Day 2, Team Leader of the CPP Cox’s Bazar Unit, facilitated discussions on disaster preparedness, emphasizing the crucial roles healthcare providers play during emergencies. The conversation spotlighted response measures in light of the recent cyclone. The workshop concluded with a |
| granted certificates of completion and work as disaster volunteer teams during actual disasters. （Indicator：Drilling Manual, Cases of activities in emergency disaster response） | group exercise where participants were divided into teams to share their strategies for pre- and mid-disaster actions, which encouraged active engagement and practical learning. Ultimately, this training workshop played a vital role in strengthening disaster response coordination and raising awareness in the region. |
3-1 b) Training of Local Health Workers on Disaster Health Activities Target ： Health workers who belong to local NGOs or civil organizations 20 people （ 3 days ） × 8 divisions = 160 people | b) Disaster drills at junior high schools will be documented in a manual so that students who participate in the drills will have the skills to take appropriate action in the event of a disaster. （Indicator：Drilling Manual, Report of emergency disaster response） | A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Local Health Workers training at Patuakhali where 23 persons have participated.
08-10 April 2025, Patuakhali, Total Participants 20+3=23 Participants
On the training, the trainer delivered an informative session on essential healthcare responses in times of crisis. He outlined critical treatment protocols for common issues that arise during disasters, such as the administration of proper care for snakebites, effective management of fevers, and treatment strategies for diarrhea. His interactive presentation engaged the participants, providing them with practical skills and knowledge they could directly apply in the field. In parallel, CPP volunteers shared insights into the indispensable role of the CPP in disaster management. He highlighted the importance of community awareness initiatives and the coordination of evacuations to designated cyclone shelters. He also brought attention to the existing gaps in the primary healthcare system, advocating for targeted training efforts to enhance both response times and quality of care during disasters. NGO representative led a reflective discussion on the overall effectiveness of the training. She emphasized how the program significantly boosted participants’ understanding of disaster |
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| health management and empowered them to step into crucial roles in their communities. |
3-2 Strengthening disaster response capacities of local communities through disaster drilling training |
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3-2 a) Women Empowerment and Capacity Building
Target ： Women’s groups in target villages 20 people （ 2 days ） × 8 divisions × 2 times = 320 people | A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Local Health Workers training at Habiganj where 24 persons have participated.
04-05 May 2025, Habiganj, Total Participants 20+4=24 Participants
Empowering Women in Disaster Preparedness and Leadership:Disasters affect everyone, but women and girls often face additional challenges due to social and cultural inequalities. This training was designed to empower women by equipping them with essential skills in leadership, emergency preparedness, and disaster response, ensuring they play an active role in decision-making and planning. Skill Development and Practical Emergency Response Training:The training covered a wide range of practical topics, including first aid, CPR, bleeding control, fire safety, evacuation procedures, and disaster simulations. They also recommended future training sessions on climate change adaptation, technology in disaster management, and legal protection for women in emergencies. Overall, the training laid a solid foundation for building inclusive, resilient communities through empowered female leadership and continuous capacity building. |
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3-2 b) Disaster Drilling for the Youth and Local Stakeholders Target：Youth in the local private and civic sector 45 people （ 2 days ） × 8 divisions × 2 times = 720 people | A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Youth and Local Stakeholder Drilling at Habiganj, Patuakhali and Rangpur where 96 persons have participated.
07-08 May 2025, Rangpur, Total Participants 45+4=49 10 & 12 May 2025, Patuakhali, Total Participants 45 12-13 May 2025, Habiganj, Total Participants 45+3=48
The training aimed to enhance the emergency response capacity of local youth, CPP volunteers, NGO representatives, schoolteachers, and government officials. A total of 49 participants from Rangpur took part in the sessions. On the first day, the workshop was inaugurated by Fire Service Station Officer Md. Kamal, who highlighted the vital role youth can play in disaster risk reduction. Participants received practical training on how to respond to various emergencies, including fires, earthquakes, floods, cyclones, and lightning strikes. The sessions involved demonstrations and hands-on exercises to help participants understand rescue operations and safety procedures. On the second day, the focus shifted to early warning systems and coordinated evacuation planning.
The objective was to build the capacity of youth and local stakeholders by equipping them with essential knowledge and practical skills related to disaster preparedness, emergency response, and recovery. The training emphasized the role of youth as powerful change-makers and first responders within their communities. Youth are dynamic, quick learners, and |
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| open to adopting innovative approaches. Their physical agility, enthusiasm, and growing sense of social responsibility make them ideal participants for community-based disaster management (CBDM). The first day of the training focused on earthquake preparedness and rescue operations, where participants were guided through step-by-step safety procedures during and after a seismic event.
The two-day program included a wide range of practical sessions such as first aid, triage, fire safety, evacuation drills, and hygiene awareness. Youth volunteers from local schools and colleges actively participated, learning CPR, injury assessment, and emergency evacuation techniques. Community leaders and Union Parishad members attended leadership workshops on disaster coordination, while NGOs like CIS facilitated logistics and provided expert guidance. Healthcare professionals trained participants in medical emergency response, and fire service personnel demonstrated fire extinguishing methods. A final mock drill involving all stakeholders tested communication and coordination in a simulated flood scenario. |
3-2 c) Disaster Drilling for Junior High Schools Target：School Children 40 people （ 2 days ） × 8 divisions × 2 times = 640 people | A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Disaster Drilling for Junior High School at Bagerhat and Pabna where 86 persons have participated. 07-08 May 2025, Pabna, Total Participants 40+4=44 14-15 May 2025, Bagerhat, Total Participants 40+2=42.
Practical Drills and Learning Outcomes The second day shifted to practical application, where participants engaged in hands- on drills designed to reinforce their understanding of |
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| emergency protocols. They practiced essential skills such as proper positioning during an earthquake, using stairs for safe evacuation, and administering basic first aid to injured individuals. These drills were instrumental in helping students and educators internalize emergency procedures while increasing their confidence in managing disaster situations effectively. Overall, the program successfully established foundational disaster preparedness skills at the school level, fostering a more resilient educational community in Pabna. The disaster drilling training for junior high school in Bagerhat aims to enhance their awareness, preparedness, and practical response skills during emergencies such as earthquakes, fires, and floods. Through interactive sessions and simulation exercises, students learn about different types of disasters, understand school evacuation procedures, and practice safety measures like “Drop, Cover, and Hold.” The training includes basic first aid instruction and emphasizes teamwork, leadership, and calm decision-making under pressure. By participating in the drill, students gain the confidence and knowledge needed to respond quickly and safely during real- life disaster situations, contributing to a safer school environment. |
3-3 Update website contents as E-resources for Disaster Management | https://apad-bd.org/a-pad-bangladesh-activity-report-month- of-april-2025/ https://apad-bd.org/print-media/ https://apad-bd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/1-1.webp https://apad-bd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/2-1.webp https://apad-bd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/3-1.webp https://apad-bd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/4-1.webp |
- Challenges
Practice in collaboration with A-PAD Bangladesh Network Partners Please write good practice in collaboration with partner organizations
- Any contribution Funds Received and Grants Applied / Planned and Implemented Projects by CIS including Emergency Response
Please write Projects name and its fund resources
- Relationship with Bangladesh Government and Japanese Embassy Please write about Meeting with Government office
