The New Nation - Internet Edition

REPRESENTATIVES of some NGOs and civil society organisations have underscored the need for involvement of the people and political forces in the implementation of the climate change action plan. Briefing the press they observed that the document prepared by the government namely, 'Bangladesh Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan' (BCCSAP) would provide the basis of the proposed Multi-Donor Trust Fund which might strengthen Bangladesh's efforts to overcome difficulties arising out of global warming.

Bangladesh is one of the countries that are likely to be most affected by climate change. Being a low-lying delta it faces the threat of increased floods and storms. Tropical super cyclone Sidr and consecutive floods in 2007 showed the increased frequency and ferocity of natural calamities. Almost one-fifth area of Bangladesh would go under sea-water leading to ecological disaster and mass migration of millions of people due to sea level rise by 2050.

There is thus a dire need for an adaptation strategy to cope with climate change. The climate change action plan document has prioritised sustainable development, poverty reduction and increased well-being of vulnerable groups of the people. It covers a wide range of adaptation issues like food security, comprehensive disaster management, infrastructure development and capacity building at short, medium and long terms. BCCSAP, it is alleged, has ignored some basic issues like forced migration of a large number of people and socio-economic impact of sea-level rise. The civil society workers suggested recasting and redefining of the document. People of Bangladesh have resilience to fight and cope with natural disasters. Climate change in Bangladesh is actually a development issue. It can be best addressed through active participation of the people who know best the strategies to cope with adverse climatic conditions.