UK-BD partnership to strengthen flood forecasting, early warning in 4 districts: Rizwana

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan on Monday announced that the EnRICH Project, jointly supported by the UK and Bangladesh, will enhance flood forecasting and early warning systems in Sylhet, Sunamganj, Cumilla, and Feni between September 2025 and March 2026.

Speaking at a national event titled “UK-Bangladesh Collaboration on Ecology-Based Adaptation and Hydro-Met Services” held at Pani Bhaban in Dhaka, Rizwana highlighted the importance of the initiative in improving local disaster preparedness and response.

She praised the collaboration between the UK Met Office, RIMES, Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB), and Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD), noting that it would significantly strengthen Bangladesh’s capacity to predict and manage flood risks.

“Our meteorologists often face challenges in forecasting sudden floods or upstream water surges. Over the next six months, this partnership will enhance our ability to interpret rainfall and hydrological data more accurately,” Rizwana said.

Emphasising the need for stronger government-NGO coordination, she added that the sustainability of development initiatives relies on building institutional partnerships rather than running isolated projects.

The adviser also underlined the ecological and economic significance of the Haor region, saying, “If the Haor ecosystem collapses, our food supply will decline. Protecting Haor means protecting the nation’s overall ecosystem.”

She revealed that although the National Haor Master Plan has been completed, the Haor Development Board still lacks an approved structure, limiting its effectiveness. The government, she said, has also drafted a Haor and Wetland Ordinance and a protection order under the Water Act for Hakaluki and Tanguar Haor, which will soon be gazetted as climate- and agriculture-friendly ecosystems.

Rizwana also noted that Haor communities remain deprived of basic healthcare. “We are exploring a boat-based hospital model that can function both during floods and dry seasons,” she said, adding that such a project could be considered under the Climate Change Trust Fund.

The event, attended by government officials, development partners, academics, and civil society representatives, also showcased achievements from the UK-funded NABAPALLAB Project in the Sundarbans Ecologically Critical Area (ECA) and announced its expansion to Hakaluki Haor, one of South Asia’s largest wetlands.

A panel discussion featuring experts from the ADB, CNRS, RSF, and the Bangladesh Forest Department underscored the importance of integrating Nature-Based Solutions and Locally Led Adaptation into national climate strategies.