The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

Vice Chancellor of Dhaka University (DU) Prof Dr AAMS Arefin Siddique on Thursday underscored the need for carrying out more action- oriented researches on climate change through sharing experiences of the SAARC countries to deal with adverse impacts of the menace.

The SAARC countries have already affected due to the climate change in various forms, he said while inaugurating a seven-day training program at Nobab Nowab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban of the DU here.

Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences of the University and New Delhi- based SAARC Disaster Management Centre (SDMS) jointly organized the training on Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction in South Asia.

Dean of the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences Prof Dr Shahnaj Haque Hossain chaired the inaugural session while treasurer of the university Prof Dr Mizanur Rahman as special guest. Disaster expert Dr Binod Sakya represented from the SDMC.

Prof of the Department of Geography and Environment Dr Amanatullah Khan delivered his speech as the training coordinator.

The climate change is not only an environmental issue, but also has a bearing on development, Prof Arefin said adding that Bangladesh has been experiencing climate change in the form of severe drought, frequent cyclones, salinity intrusion and abnormal fluctuation of temperatures.

The DU VC held the developed countries responsible for the adverse impact of the climate change and said that they must compensate in this regard to help the developing countries overcome the crisis.

A total of 38 participants from the SAARC countries mostly professors, government officials, NGO activists and researchers are participating in the training programme. As many as 31 resource persons will impart training to the trainees by presenting lectures on diverse aspects of the climate change in South Asia.