You are currently viewing A-PAD Bangladesh Activity Report Month of July 2025

A-PAD Bangladesh Activity Report Month of July 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)

 

  1. 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 3,456 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 2,414 people visited to the Disaster Management Coordination Center to discuss about disaster preparedness and health related issues.

Dhaka: 285 Persons Cox’s Bazar: 282 Persons Pabna: 324 Persons

Bagerhat: 300 Persons

Patuakhali: 320 Persons

Habiganj: 325 Persons

Rangpur: 298 Persons

Netrokona: 280 Persons

Total  = 2,414 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

A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Disaster Management Awareness programs at the 8 divisional areas where 491 persons have participated. Total 4 times training organized at each divisional areas.

Dhaka:15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60+4=64 Participants

Cox’s Bazar: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60 Participants

Pabna: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60 Participants

Bagerhat: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60+2=62 Participants

Patuakhali: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60+5=65 Participants

 

 

people

 

Habiganj: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60 Participants

Rangpur: 15 Participantsx 4 Sessons= 60 Participants

Netrokona: 15 Participants x 4 Sessons= 60 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.

 

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 Patuakhali. Total 260 Participants joined the Network Partner Meeting.

10 July 2025, Atkhali, Total Participants 50+1=51 Participants

13 July 2025, Moddho Dakua, Total Participants 50+3=53 Participants

14 July 2025, Chiknikandi, Total Participants 50+1=51 Participants

15 July 2025, Kachua Hat, Total Participants 50+3=53 Participants

16 July 2025, Moddho Atkhali, Total Participants 50+2=52 Participants

 

Community Initiative Society (CIS) organized a five-day Networking Partners Meeting across different locations in Galachipa Upazila, Patuakhali. The meetings aimed to strengthen disaster preparedness and response in this highly disaster-prone coastal region. A total of 250 participants from various unions and villages—including NGO representatives,

teachers, public leaders, social workers, volunteer groups, and

 

 

 

 

local residents—took part in this initiative. Discussions were held around key disaster issues such as flood, cyclone, river erosion, waterlogging, climate change, and health emergencies, with the goal of developing an effective one-year action plan.

On Day 1, the meeting was focused on cyclone preparedness and disaster-resilient infrastructure. As Galachipa frequently faces severe cyclones and tidal surges, participants stressed the urgent need for building and maintaining multipurpose cyclone shelters that can serve both as schools and emergency shelters. There were also discussions on improving drainage systems, re- excavating canals and rivers, and elevating roads to ensure year-round accessibility. On Day 2, held the topic was the impact of climate change on the region. Participants discussed how rising sea levels are increasing salinity in agricultural land, contaminating freshwater sources like tube wells and ponds, and displacing families due to coastal erosion. On Day 3, focusing on river erosion. River erosion is a major threat in many parts of Galachipa, causing the loss of agricultural land, homes, and critical infrastructure. Participants shared stories of families becoming landless overnight and the social instability that follows such displacement. Proposed solutions included constructing and maintaining permanent embankments using geo-bags and concrete blocks, regular river dredging to maintain the river’s natural flow, and afforestation along

riverbanks to prevent soil erosion. On Day 4, , the growing

 

 

 

 

threat of dengue fever in rural and coastal areas was the

primary topic. Previously considered an urban issue, dengue

outbreaks are now affecting areas like Galachipa during the

monsoon season. Participants discussed preventive measures

such  as  eliminating  stagnant  water  sources,  cleaning

surroundings,  using  mosquito  nets  and  repellents,  and

spreading awareness at the community level. The symptoms

and critical warning signs of severe dengue were shared in

detail, along with treatment and recovery advice. On Day 5, the

final  meeting  was  held  at  focusing  on  flooding  and

waterlogging, which are regular problems during the monsoon

season. Heavy rainfall and upstream runoff flood vast areas,

disrupting everyday life. Homes, schools, roads, and health

centers are submerged; food and clean water become scarce,

and waterborne and mosquito-borne diseases spread rapidly.

2-2 Disaster Preparedness Campaigns  Target:Partner organizations and local communities

50 people × 2 times × 8 divisions = 800 people

 

2-3 Network                 Partners Capacity Strengthening (DRR)

Target        :                Partner organizations

A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Networking Partner Capacity

Strengthening DRR at Cox’s Bazar where 45 persons have

participated from 2 Organizations.

12-13 July 2025, Patuakhali, Total Participants 40+5=45

Participants

 

 

20 people × 2 organizations

× 2 times × 8 divisions = 640 people

 

 

On the 1st day focused on cyclone preparedness and post- cyclone response strategies. He emphasized that meteorological disasters such as cyclones not only destroy physical infrastructure but also affect public health by increasing the risk of vector-borne diseases. Initial flooding can wash away existing mosquito breeding grounds, but stagnant water left behind often creates new breeding sites—leading to a rise in disease transmission if not properly managed. Participants learned the importance of early warning systems, personal safety measures, and community coordination during cyclones. On Day 2, Program Officer at UTTC Cox’s Bazar, conducted a session on extreme weather events, particularly thunderstorms. He explained that thunder and lightning are dangerous and often overlooked hazards, with Cox’s Bazar being a high-risk zone. Thunderstorm events typically occur during March to April and September to November, coinciding with early summer and the late rainy season. He highlighted the need for localized preparedness plans and encouraged participants to assess community vulnerabilities and improve their understanding of threats. Throughout the training, participants were introduced to key disaster management concepts, including types and classifications of disasters, vulnerabilities, mitigation strategies, and the link between disasters and development. The sessions also included a review

of the disaster history and risk profile of Cox’s Bazar, helping

 

 

 

 

participants understand local contexts. They learned the

importance of data collection and risk analysis in disaster

planning essential for issuing early warnings and prioritizing

interventions.

2-4 Seminar for Developing New                 Disaster Prevention Solutions

Target : NGO,                          Disaster

A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Seminar at Habiganj where 33 persons have participated.

16-17 July 2025, Habiganj, Total Participants 30+3= 33

Participants

prevention                          related government organizations, Private sector personnels

30 people ( 2days ) × 8

 

On 1st day of the program, discussed on warning systems,

flooding, & global warming. Community leader emphasized on exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) radiation as the result of global

divisions × 2 times = 480 people

warming as people of Hobiganj suffering from heat wave badly

now a days that overexposure to UV radiation as the result in

 

painful sunburn. It can also lead to more serious health effects,

 

including skin cancer, premature aging of the skin and other

 

skin disorders; cataracts and other eye damage; and immune

 

system suppression. 2nd day of the Seminar, focused on the

 

impact of disaster on children should be thought of in terms of

 

their developmental age and not their chronologic age.

 

Preschoolers are still exercising some normal separation

 

anxiety. Increased arousal, sleep disturbances, clinging & fear

 

of being alone all become manifest.

 

The Seminar for Developing New Disaster Prevention Solutions

 

aims to achieve the following objectives:

 

 

 

 

 

1.   Facilitate knowledge exchange: The seminar aims to bring together experts, practitioners, and policymakers from different sectors to share their knowledge and experiences in disaster prevention and management.

2.                    Foster collaboration: The seminar aims to promote collaboration and partnerships among different stakeholders, including disaster management agencies, NGOs, academics, engineers,    architects,    and    urban    planners.

3. Identify new approaches and technologies: The seminar aims to explore new approaches and technologies to improve disaster prevention and management.

4. Enhance societal resilience: The seminar aims to contribute

to building a safer and more resilient society that is better equipped to face the challenges posed by disasters.

2-5 International Symposium on DRR

 

Target     :         Government, Local government, private company,    NOG, partner organization, representative    of  A-PAD member countries, etc.

200 people

 

5.  Practical training to improve resilience of local communities

 

( Outcome 3 ) Contribute to improving the disaster

 

 

 

 

resilience of local

communities through practical training.

 

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.)

 

3-1 a) Workshop on Disaster Management and Emergency Health Response

A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Workshop on Disaster Management and Emergency Health Response at Netrokona where 27 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

granted certificates of completion and work as disaster

09-10 July 2025, Netrokona, Total Participants 25+2=27 Participants

 

CIS Conducted a workshop program in Barhatta, Netrakona on 9th & 10th July-2025, Two days. On first day of the meeting, Chip Guest Bipul Sarkar Head Teacher Mohommad Ali Government Primary School. He Said Emphasized on the recent flood and Lightning situation in Netrokona district areas. Over 200 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. In addition, houses, trees, electrical wires, and other infrastructure may also be damaged for Lightning. On 2nd day, Hafizur Rahman liton, Community Leader said that Access to remote and flood-affected areas

remains a challenge due to damaged infrastructure and

 

 

 

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)

ongoing Rainfall. Funding constraints also limit the scale and scope of humanitarian assistance, necessitating increased support from international donors and partners. So we people must be aware them to protect from floods and lightning. Access to remote and flood affected areas remains a challenge due to damaged infrastructure and ongoing rainfall. Funding constraints also limit the scale and scope of humanitarian assistance, necessitating increased support from NGO’s and Government Organisations. CIS is playing an important role by creating awareness program and conducting such training and worksop on disaster reduction. At the training, it was discussed on Increase funding and resources for emergency response efforts to meet the immediate needs of flood affected communities. The recent flooding in Bangladesh has had a devastating impact on millions of people, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities and posing significant, Immediate Action is required to address the urgent needs of affected people and support their recovery and resilience building efforts in the long

term.

3-1 b) Training of Local Health Workers on Disaster Health Activities

Target : Health workers who belong to local NGOs or civil organizations

A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Local Health Workers training at Dhaka where 24 persons have participated.

 

20-22 July 2025, Dhaka, Total Participants 20+4=24 Participants

 

The first day of the training session focused on the vital role of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in fostering inherent

 

 

20 people ( 3 days ) × 8 divisions = 160 people

 

resilience during disasters. On the training it was highlighted

the significant responsibilities of Local Health Worker’s                                       in

 

emergency scenarios, particularly in providing immediate care

 

to            choking            and            unconscious patients.

 

Participants were divided into three groups to facilitate

 

interactive feedback sessions. Each group selected a team

 

leader to present their insights. One of the groups focused on

 

health maintenance strategies during extreme heat events and

 

emphasized hydration, early symptom recognition, and the

 

importance of community education in reducing heat-related

 

illnesses. The second day centered on the critical role CHWs

 

play in emergency health response during disasters. It was

 

raised ethical concerns regarding the expectations placed on

 

Local Health Workers  during pandemics, emphasizing that

 

while they receive health-related training, it is neither practical

 

nor ethical to obligate them to serve as primary medical

 

responders during large-scale infectious disease outbreaks.

3-2 Strengthening disaster response capacities of local         communities through                      disaster

drilling training

 

3-2 a)

Women Empowerment and Capacity Building

A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Women Empowerment and Capacity Building at Rangpur where 22 persons have participated.

 

 

Target : Women’s groups

in target villages

20 people ( 2 days )× 8

divisions × 2 times = 320 people

 

16-17 July 2025, Rangpur, Total Participants 20+2=22 Participants

 

Rangpur district, located in Bangladesh, is significantly vulnerable to various types of natural disasters due to its geographical features and climatic conditions. In response to this pressing issue, Community Initiative Society (CIS) is set to host a Women Empowerment Capacity Building Training on July 16 and 17, 2025. The primary goal of this training is to minimize the impact of disasters on communities by enhancing the ability to respond swiftly and efficiently in emergency situations. While it is not feasible to entirely prevent natural disasters such as cyclones, tidal floods, irregular rainfall, cold waves, arsenic pollution, and tornadoes, collective efforts can significantly reduce the associated losses and suffering.

Through this drilling session, CIS aims to strengthen the emergency response capacity of women participants, focusing on their roles before, during, and after a disaster. The training will gather a total of 24 participants from Rangpur Sadar, providing them with practical tools and strategies that can be implemented in real-life situations. By fostering a community of empowered women, the initiative hopes to create a robust support system that can effectively handle the challenges

posed by natural disasters.

3-2 b)

Disaster  Drilling  for  the

A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Youth and Local Stakeholder

Drilling at Bagerhat and Pabna where 50 persons have

 

 

Youth           and Local Stakeholders

Target:Youth in the local private and civic sector

45 people ( 2 days ) × 8

divisions × 2 times = 720 people

 

participated.

 

14-15 July 2025, Bagerhat, Total Participants 45+3=48 Participants

19-20 July 2025, Pabna, Total Participants 45+5=50 Participants

 

Bagerhat district is one of the disaster-prone areas in Bangladesh Sarankhola Upazila, located in the southwestern part of Bangladesh, is prone to multiple natural disasters, including cyclones, flooding, and coastal erosion. The impact of these disasters is felt most by the vulnerable populations, including youth and local communities, who often lack the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively respond to these events. Therefore, disaster preparedness drills targeting youth and local stakeholders are essential to improving community resilience and disaster response and two days Training program, 14&15 July-2025 Community Initiative Society (CIS) Sharankhola, Bagerhat Disaster Drilling for the Youth and Local Stakeholder Venue: Rasulpur Government Primary School, In short its main objective is to minimize human suffering and damage as much as possible. Because it is not possible for us prevent natural disaster, if we try sincerely and collectively, changing our habits my reduce its frequency. 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 training workshop was

 

 

 

 

on build up on capacity on emergency response during and

after disaster. CIS conducted a training program in Sarankhola,

Bagerhat. Total 48 participant’s Disaster Drilling for the Youth

and Local Stakeholder

CIS organized disaster drilling program was successfully

conducted in Pabna to enhance the preparedness and response

capacity of local youth and stakeholders on 19-20 July 2025

where 50 participants joined. The training focused on practical

simulations    and     awareness-building          activities,     engaging

students, community leaders, local government officials, and

NGO representatives. Participants were trained on key disaster

response techniques, including evacuation procedures, first

aid, and coordination during emergencies such as floods, fires,

and earthquakes. The drill emphasized the vital role of youth as

first responders and raised awareness about local hazards and

community    resilience.    The                       program       fostered stronger

collaboration among stakeholders and highlighted the need for

continued capacity-building to ensure effective disaster risk

reduction in the region.

3-2 c)

Disaster Drilling for Junior High Schools

Target:School Children

A-PAD Bangladesh conducted Disaster Drilling for Junior High School at Netrokona where 42 persons have participated.

 

21-22 July 2025, Netrokona, Total Participants 40+2=42

40 people ( 2 days ) × 8

Participants

divisions × 2 times = 640

people

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 drilling program for the Junior High school students in Barhatta, Netrakona on 21th, and 22th of July- 2025, Two days. On first day of the meeting, Head Teacher, Md. Musahidur Rahoman appriciated, CIS role along with community volunteers role in very important in natural disaster management. He said 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 local people what to do before the disaster. He also expressed that these type of support will be Continuing in Barhatta Upazila. On 2nd Day Present, Md. Zubaidur Rahoman Assistant Teacher said that such activities will help to prepare the local people during disaster. He thanked CIS team and expressed his gratitude to organize such kind of training. He 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. They 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, 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.

3-3 Update               website contents as E-resources for              Disaster Management

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  1. Challenges

Practice in collaboration with A-PAD Bangladesh Network Partners Please write good practice in collaboration with partner organizations

  1. Any contribution Funds Received and Grants Applied / Planned and Implemented Projects by CIS including Emergency Response

Please write Projects name and its fund resources

  1. Relationship with Bangladesh Government and Japanese Embassy Please write about Meeting with Government office