Fani’s message for damage control

It is certainly a matter of relief that after hitting Odisha in India, Cyclone Fani was considerably weakened by the time it swept through Bangladesh and we were saved from any serious natural calamity. Severe disaster had been apprehended and preparations were made accordingly. But it is not very clear as to what preparations were actually taken to tackle any possible major calamity if Fani actually hit in full force.

By the time Fani entered Bangladesh, it had been reduced to gusty and squally winds, but even so 14 people were killed. It had hit Odisha in full force, but only 8 persons died there.

In the past Bangladesh had displayed excellent disaster management in the case of cyclones and tidal surges and other countries would learn from our experience. In fact, the Bangladesh model was used in constructing Odisha’s cyclone shelters, it was learnt. But we can’t just sit back in complacence. Fani has reminded us that there is need to improve and further develop our disaster management.

As a result of Fani, embankments were damaged in Patuakhali and Barguna, water-logging several villages in the areas. Villagers in Koyra upazila of Khulna struggled hard to save the embankment there, but that too broke and at least three villages were flooded. The cyclone has served to point out how weak these embankments are in the southern coastal areas.

A lot has been said about the corruption and irregularities involved in the construction, maintenance and repairs of the embankments in Bangladesh. In the southern coastal region, the embankments have proven to be weak and risky and this needs attention. Repairs need to be carried out.

It did not seem that the people of the coastal areas were fully informed about the seriousness of Fani and the possible devastation it could have wrought. There were limitations in the warning systems.

The manner in which technical terms and signals are used to forecast the cyclones is not understood by the common people. Even well educated citizens can hardly be expected to comprehend the intensity and other details of cyclones, given the scientific terminology used.

Our weather-related signals are predominantly related to river and sea ports, targeting persons involved in maritime navigation. It is imperative that the people be told in simple terms where the tidal surges are likely to occur and in what intensity. Many people do not grasp the severity of a cyclone and are reluctant to leave their hearth and homes to take refuge in the cyclone shelters. This delay often ends in disaster.

An assessment must be made as to whether there were any shortcomings in the preparations regarding Cyclone Fani. This will enable us to take adequate preparations in the case of future cyclones.