A-PAD Bangladesh Activity Report Month of June 2025
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 June 2025, A-PAD Bangladesh has successfully benefited a total of 3,254 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 2,274 people visited to the Disaster Management Coordination Center to discuss about disaster preparedness and health related issues. Dhaka: 260 Persons Cox’s Bazar: 268 Persons Pabna: 292 Persons Bagerhat: 286 Persons Patuakhali: 325 Persons Habiganj: 318 Persons Rangpur: 275 Persons Netrokona: 250 Persons Total = 2,274 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 490 persons have participated. Total 4 times training organized at each divisional areas. Dhaka:15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60+2=62 Participants Cox’s Bazar: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60+1=61 Participants Pabna: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60 Participants Bagerhat: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60+3=63 Participants Patuakhali: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60 Participants Habiganj: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60+1=61 Participants Rangpur: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60 Participants | |
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| Netrokona: 15 Participants x 4 Sessons= 60+3=63 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 Cox’s Bazar. Total 256 Participants joined the Network Partner Meeting. 14 June 2025, Kolatoli, Total Participants 50+2=52 Participants 15 June 2025, Link Road, Total Participants 50+1=51 Participants 16 June 2025, Kawar Para, Total Participants 50 Participants 17 June 2025, Pechargona, Total Participants 50+3=53 Participants 18 June 2025, Ruhuler Dail, Total Participants 50 Participants
Several tributaries and small rivers flow through the Cox’s Bazar district, including the largest Sea Beach . Every year, many people in riverine areas suffer from Cyclone and river erosion and live a dehumanized life. After all, a large part of Cox’s Bazar district is at risk of severe Cyclone and Flood. Experts believe that the statistics of the Cox’s bazar District are in the red zone for Cyclone. Various government and non-government organization are working to deal with various natural disaster such as Cyclone. Community Initiative Society is also a private organization, which is implementing various plans including |
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| making people aware about disaster. o Improved Coordination: These meetings ensure that different agencies, organizations, and communities are on the same page regarding disaster response strategies and protocols.
o Information Sharing: Participants can share critical information, best practices, and lessons learned from past incidents, leading to better preparedness and response plans.
o Resource Allocation: Effective discussions can help identify and allocate resources more efficiently, ensuring that the necessary tools, personnel, and supplies are available when needed.
o Building Relationships: Establishing strong working relationships and trust among stakeholders can enhance cooperation during actual disaster events.
o Training and Drills: Network meetings often include training sessions and simulations, helping participants practice and improve their skills in a controlled environment. |
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| o Policy Development: These meetings can be a platform for developing and updating disaster prevention and response policies, ensuring they are comprehensive and up-to-date. |
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 Dhaka and Patuakhali where 82 persons have participated from 2 Organizations.
03-04 June 2025, Dhaka, Total Participants 40 Participants 18-19 June 2025, Patuakhali, Total Participants 40+2=42 Participants Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) is a systematic approach aimed at minimizing vulnerabilities and disaster risks through proactive measures. The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 serves as a global blueprint that outlines a comprehensive strategy to enhance resilience against natural and man-made hazards. Risk assessment in urban environments involves a detailed analysis of the potential hazards that could affect communities, infrastructure, and economies. It entails the identification and evaluation of risks through comprehensive data collection and analysis, including |
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| factors like population density, building infrastructure, and historic vulnerability to disasters. Hazard mapping plays a crucial role in this process by visually representing the areas at greatest risk, thus enabling stakeholders to prioritize interventions and resource allocation effectively. Community- based early warning systems are essential tools that empower local populations to respond effectively to imminent threats. These systems involve the participation of community members in the monitoring and communication processes, ensuring that warnings are timely and relevant. They utilize various methods, from traditional communication channels to modern technology, such as mobile alerts and social media platforms, to disseminate information rapidly. Effective coordination among partners during emergencies is critical for a successful response. This involves establishing clear communication channels and collaborative frameworks that bring together government agencies, non-governmental organizations, community groups, and international bodies. Through regular coordination meetings and shared platforms, stakeholders can align their efforts, share resources, and ensure that response strategies are harmonized. |
2-4 Seminar for Developing New Disaster Prevention Solutions Target ： NGO, Disaster prevention related government organizations, Private sector personnels 30 people （ 2days ） × 8 | A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Seminar at Netrokona where 32 persons have participated. 22-23 June 2025, Netrokona, Total Participants 30+2= 32 Participants Netrokona, a low lying deltaic area prone to annual monsoon floods, faced one of its worst floods in recent days. Beginning in June/July, heavy rains led to rivers breaching their banks, |
divisions × 2 times = 480 people |
| inundating vast areas multiple districts. The flood waters submerged homes, agricultural lands, and infrastructure, |
| disrupting the lives of millions of people. This district recently | |
| experienced severe flooding due to heavy rains and | |
| overflowing rivers, affecting thousands of people across the | |
| areas. The floods have caused extensive damage to homes, | |
| infrastructure, and livelihoods, exacerbating existing | |
| vulnerabilities in many communities. Immediate | |
| humanitarian assistance is required to address the urgent | |
| needs of the affected population. The main focus on Seminar | |
| for Developing New Disaster Prevention Solutions was on | |
| aware community leaders and take initiative step during floods | |
| and any other disaster as well.CIS conducted a program in | |
| Barhatta, Netrakona on 22th &23th June-2025, Two days. On | |
| first day of the meeting, Headmaster of Naogaon Government | |
| Primary School, Barhatta, emphasized on the recent flood | |
| situation in Netrokona district areas. Over 140 of people have | |
| been affected, with many displaced from their homes. Access | |
| to safe drinking water and sanitation facilities is severely | |
| compromised, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases. On | |
| the other hand the water level of the Jadukata River has | |
| decreased due to reduced rainfall in Sunamgonj. | |
2-5 International Symposium on DRR |
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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 Habiganj where 28 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 | 21-22 June 2025, Cox’s Bazar, Total Participants 25+3=28
To address these challenges, Two-days workshop on Disaster Management and Emergency Health Response have been organized. The primary goal was to raise awareness, improve emergency preparedness, and build the capacity of local stakeholders. The workshop was attended by community members, youth groups, health workers, and local government representatives. Participants also discussed the importance of sustainable infrastructure development, such as embankments and safe shelters, to protect vulnerable areas. The workshop |
| 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 granted certificates of completion and work as disaster volunteer teams during actual disasters. （Indicator：Drilling Manual, Cases of activities in emergency disaster response）
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） | underscored the critical role of collaborative efforts among local authorities, NGOs, and community members in implementing these solutions effectively. A key achievement of the workshop was the opportunity it provided for stakeholders to exchange knowledge and propose innovative ideas tailored to the unique challenges of Habiganj. The discussions fostered a deeper understanding of best practices in disaster prevention, and several actionable recommendations were made to enhance the region’s disaster resilience. This initiative reflects the growing need for inclusive and participatory disaster risk reduction strategies. By empowering local communities with knowledge and skills, the workshop aimed to build long-term resilience. It also highlighted the importance of coordination among different sectors such as health, local governance, and civil society. Overall, the event was a step toward fostering a more disaster-resilient and health-prepared community. 1. Raising Awareness on Disaster Risks The training aimed to increase community understanding of various types of disasters such as floods, cyclones, lightning, and river erosion. 2. Strengthening Emergency Health Response Capacity
Another key objective was to equip participants with basic health response skills during emergencies. The training included first aid, water sanitation, and psychological support techniques. This helped community members prepare to act |
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| quickly and effectively in a crisis.
3. Enhancing Community-Based Preparedness
The workshop aimed to develop localized disaster preparedness plans through group work and mapping. It promoted active participation of youth, women, and marginalized groups in preparedness activities. This built a sense of responsibility and ownership within the community. 4. Improving Multi-Sectoral Coordination
Strengthening coordination between health workers, volunteers, local government, and NGOs was a vital objective. The training encouraged participants to form communication networks and response teams. This collaboration ensures a faster and more organized disaster response. 5. Promoting Sustainable Risk Reduction Practices
The training emphasized the importance of long-term and sustainable approaches to disaster management. It introduced concepts like safe construction, early warning systems, and school-based awareness. These practices aim to reduce future risks and create a resilient community. |
3-1 b) Training of Local Health Workers on Disaster Health | A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Local Health Workers training at Rangpur where 20 persons have participated. |
Activities
Target ： Health workers who belong to local NGOs or civil organizations 20 people （ 3 days ） × 8 divisions = 160 people |
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16-18 June 2025, Rangpur, Total Participants 20 Participants
Rangpur is one of the disaster prone area and main disasters of that area are Flood, Fire, Thunder & Earthquake. The main focus on training workshop was on build up on capacity on Disaster Health response during and after disaster. workshop was held EG Group hall room in Rangpur sadar , Rangpur . Total 30 participants from Different organizations Local community Health workers social Workers and Community First Aiders & Local Health Worker had joined that training workshop. The training was conducted two days focusing on different topics. Main focus of the training was Disaster Health Activities and Emergency Health. As the participates were from different background and different profession .On that training workshop CIS Addressing about their activity and future plan. Each Training Workshop day public representative, Govt. officer, social worker add their valuable speech. § Find out the steps of safety which are necessary during and after Emergency Health § To helps there awareness build up. § What is the role of CIS and govt. health workers during and after Emergency Health. § Identify what are the Disaster in that area and how to provide Health Service. § How to improve self awareness to community level |
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| § How to Quite response during and after disaster and Emergency Health |
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 Women Empowerment and Capacity Building at Pabna and Bagerhat where 24 persons have participated. 21-22 June 2025, Pabna, Total Participants 20+2=22 Participants 22-23 June 2025, Bagerhat, Total Participants 20 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 |
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| 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. |
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 Netrokona where 50 persons have participated.
16-17 June 2025, Netrokona, Total Participants 45+5=50 Participants Netrakona district is one of the disaster-prone areas in Bangladesh. For geographic location and weather condition, cyclone, tidal flood, erratic rainfall, cold wave, arsenic contamination, and tornado are common in this area. The main | |
| focus on drilling program was on build up on capacity on | |
| emergency response during and after disaster. CIS conducted a | |
| Disaster drilling program in Barhatta, Netrakona on 16-17 June- | |
| 2025, Two days. On first day of the training, Head Teacher of | |
| Government Primary School was present as the President on | |
| the drilling session. In his speeches, he said, CIS role along with | |
| FSCD in very important in natural disaster management. He | |
| added that this type of demonstration by volunteers can safe | |
| life and livelihoods and if disaster happen. Bangladesh is | |
| making remarkable progress in disaster management. He also | |
| expressed hope that this kind of exercise will help the students | |
| what to do before the disaster. Will help to prepare the | |
| students and local people as well during disaster. She thanked |
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| CIS team and expressed her gratitude to organize such kind of training. She also added that local people as well as students will be able to protect their lives and property during disaster by the learning of the event. It is noted that CIS Team facilitated the mock drill program. Have demonstrated what to do during cyclones, landslide floods, Floods caused by heavy rains, making stoves during floods, how to keep safe drinking water, what to do in case of fire, etc. They have demonstrated what to do during cyclones, landslides, floods, floods caused by heavy rains, rules for keeping dry food, teaching children to swim, making stoves during floods, how to keep safe drinking water, what to do in case of fire, etc. After all, the meeting was very lively with simultaneous participation of CIS participants. |
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 Dhaka where 40 persons have participated.
23-24 June 2025, Dhaka, Total Participants 40
A junior school drilling was conducted at Little Angel’s Learning School, Basabo to strengthen earthquake and fire preparedness among students and staff. The training included a short orientation on risks and safe practices, followed by a practical evacuation drill. Students practiced “Drop, Cover, and Hold” for earthquake safety and learned to evacuate calmly using designated routes during simulated emergencies. Teachers guided the evacuation process, and a headcount was taken at the assembly point to ensure accountability. The drill helped students understand the importance of staying calm |
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| and following instructions during emergencies, while the |
school identified areas for improvement in route markings and | ||
assembly procedures. The activity has enhanced the school’s | ||
readiness for future emergency situations. | ||
3-3 Update website | ||
contents as E-resources | ||
for Disaster | ||
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- 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
