A workshop focusing on the interpretation, dissemination, and sector-specific preparedness regarding the Bangladesh Cyclone Forecast Bulletin took place in Kalapara, Patuakhali on Wednesday.
Presided over by Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md. Rabiul Islam, the workshop was convened at the Farmer Training Centre of the Kalapara Agricultural Office.
Despite annual cyclone predictions, inadequate pre-planning and coordination among public and private entities often result in loss of life and property during and after disasters. Hence, to mitigate such risks, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, and CordAid organised workshops to foster proactive measures.
The workshop explored topics such as weather forecast interpretation, cyclone warning systems, and sector-specific proactive measures.
Utilising table talk simulations, the workshop vividly portrayed the roles of key institutions during disasters, especially the Agriculture, Fisheries, and Livestock Departments, local government bodies, community organisations, media outlets, CPPs, NGOs, Fire Services, and Water Development Boards.
Meteorologist SM Kamrul Hasan from the Meteorological Department and Meteorologist Sabrina Sultana delivered keynote presentations during the workshop. CordAid's Step Project Manager, Abu Naeem, delivered the welcome address while Upazila Agriculture Officer Md. Arafat Hossain spoke as a special guest.
Other dignitaries included Upazila Marine Fisheries Officer Ashikur Rahman, Upazila Project Implementation Officer Humayun Kabir, Deputy Director of CPD Ashad Uz Zaman, Lalua UP Chairman Shawkat Hossain Biswas, Journalist Mezbahuddin Mannu, and Milon Karmkar Raju.
