The New Nation - Internet Edition

Water, water everywhere, but not a drop to drink.
Southkhali on southern tip of Bay of Bengal presents this
painful scene, while two children fetch drinking water from
a far-flung area. FocusBangla

Staff Reporter

The technology currently being used can make forecast of cyclone track, wind speed, landfall and flood level in the rivers, but for disaster preparedness and emergency response, the extent of such havoc forecasting in the coastal belt still lags behind.

Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) model can make this forecast. A seminar held at the LGED Bhaban, Agargaon in the city on Tuesday came up with the assertion. The seminar was chaired by Professor Jamilur Reza Chowdhury, Vice Chancellor, BRAC University. IWM Executive Director Emaduddin Ahmed briefed the seminar.

Out of two papers presented at the seminar, Director of Bangladesh Meteorological Department Dr Shamarendra Karmakar presented on forecast of SIDR. His paper focussed on cyclone track of SIDR and landfall forecasting.

Analysing the past cyclones, if we can prepare storm surge hazard map using models that should show how much area would be inundated in the coastal zone, then we can determine where to construct more cyclone shelters and cattle shelters and to identify the evacuation routes to save valuable lives and properties. These aspects were detailed in the paper titled "Hindcast and forecasting of storm surge induced flooding" by Nasreen Mohal, a Senior Specialist of Coast, Port and Estuary Management Division of IWM.

The seminar was attended by guests and participants including donor agencies, experts and specialists from national and international organisations.