Flooding is a substantial and pervasive natural disaster in
Bangladesh, severely impacting the nation's vulnerability to the effects of
climate change. Due to its low-lying geography and close proximity to extensive
river systems, the riverine islands, or chars, of Bangladesh are particularly
susceptible to flood-related damage. This research aims to thoroughly evaluate
the social vulnerability of riverine island inhabitants, examine the impacts of
flood disasters on their lives, scrutinize their strategies for adaptation, and
identify the challenges they encounter in acclimating to their environment.
The methodological approach of this study is primarily
qualitative, supplemented by quantitative data, thereby adopting a
mixed-methods framework to enhance the study's comprehensiveness and validity.
Data collection was conducted using both primary and secondary methods. Primary
data were meticulously gathered from individuals affected by flooding through a
comprehensive strategy that included questionnaire surveys, focus group
discussions, participatory observation, and interviews with key informants.
Secondary data, on the other hand, were systematically sourced from a diverse
range of published and unpublished materials, including academic journals,
books, newspapers, magazines, documents from non-governmental organizations,
annual reports, and institutional websites.
The study divulges that riverine island residents grapple
with socio-economic vulnerabilities owing to their geographical location and
limited facility access. Predominantly residing near the Jamuna River or its
tributaries, these communities lack essential amenities such as schools,
hospitals, and transportation, rendering them susceptible to floods.
Additionally, patriarchal structures disproportionately place men under 30 at
heightened risk. Compounded by low literacy rates and a lack of adaptation
awareness, these vulnerabilities are exacerbated. The economic landscape is
dominated by agriculture, supplemented by small businesses, day labor, and
fishing. Monthly incomes vary from 3,000 to 6,000 BDT, with a notable 25.60%
earning below 3,000 BDT and a mere 15.18% having savings. Access to clean water
and sanitation is paramount; however, floods often contaminate wells, and
numerous individuals resort to unhygienic Kutcha latrines. Housing types are
reflective of socio-economic status, with many relying on inadequate flood
shelters. The absence of modern energy sources further affects living
standards, underscoring the need for comprehensive policy intervention.
The 2017 flood had a catastrophic impact on the
socio-economic fabric of the selected study villages, leaving a trail of
devastation that affected nearly every aspect of life. Almost every family had
their homes damaged, forcing many to leave their ancestral homes. The
agricultural sector was hit hard, with prolonged water stagnation leading to
nearly 75% of respondents losing their crops, and most households suffering
losses in livestock rearing. Half of the respondents lost their income and
occupations, with the remaining having to adapt to new occupations, often
earning less than before. This resulted in widespread unemployment and income
loss. The flood also wreaked havoc on the quality of life, with almost all
households experiencing damage to sanitary latrines and facing challenges in
accessing clean drinking water and food, which led to various health issues.
The education of children was disrupted, with many dropping out of school
post-flood. Significant damage was also inflicted on social infrastructure,
including embankments, schools, bridges, culverts, and roads.
Communities in Bangladesh's flood-prone regions employ
various adaptive mechanisms to mitigate the impacts of recurrent flooding.
These adaptations include early warning systems, public education, elevated
housing, diversified livelihoods, modified agricultural practices, livestock
protection, food and water management, financial strategies, health
precautions, and institutional support. Local knowledge and early warning
indicators are utilized in the absence of modern forecasting technologies.
Educational initiatives and awareness campaigns are pivotal for community flood
preparedness. Elevated housing and community shelters offer protection, while
boats provide essential transportation during floods. Agriculture adapts
through flood-resistant and fast-growing crops. Livestock protection involves
relocation and elevated shelters. Food and water management include
purification and storage techniques. Financial coping strategies encompass
asset liquidation and loans. Health adaptations involve traditional healing practices
and raised tube-wells. Furthermore, government and non-governmental
organizations play a crucial role in providing support ranging from immediate
relief to long-term rehabilitation, ensuring community resilience against
floods.
The study also investigates the complex challenges faced by
inhabitants of Bangladesh's riverine islands, particularly in char regions,
amidst recurrent flooding. Financial constraints significantly impede the
adaptive capacities of these historically resilient communities. The 2017 flood
revealed significant shortcomings in their communication infrastructure, which
is crucial for timely emergency responses and development initiatives.
Dependence on obsolete agricultural practices, such as monocultures, heightens
their vulnerability to food scarcity and economic instability during floods. A
pervasive lack of formal education impedes their ability to comprehend and
respond to the complexities of flooding and climate shifts. Moreover,
institutional support is marred by mismanagement, corruption, and delayed
services, further complicating their situation. Limited access to advanced
early warning and communication systems also undermines their resilience.
The findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive
strategies to strengthen resilience and adaptive capacities and address these
challenges, in order to improve the sustainability and quality of life for
these vulnerable communities.
Babul Hossain,
Management Science and Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing-210000, China.
Guoqing Shi,
National Research Center for Resettlement, Hohai University, Nanjing-210000, China.
Md. Nazirul Islam Sarker,
School of Social Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
Please see the link here: https://stm.bookpi.org/LFBRIUVR/article/view/13170
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