Dr Matiur Rahman

Floods, a persistent challenge in Bangladesh due to its extensive river network and low-lying terrain, can have catastrophic effects on communities, infrastructure, and the economy. In this unique context, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) have emerged as pivotal players in flood management. Their role extends beyond immediate relief efforts to long-term resilience building, filling crucial gaps in the nation's flood management strategy.

NGOs in Bangladesh have a rich history of involvement in disaster management, particularly in response to floods. Their comprehensive activities cover all phases of flood management-preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. They have been instrumental in bridging the gaps left by governmental efforts, often operating in remote and marginalised areas where state resources are scarce. This versatility makes them indispensable partners in the nation's flood management strategy.

In the preparedness phase, NGOs engage in activities to reduce communities' vulnerability to floods. This includes raising awareness about flood risks, conducting training programs on disaster preparedness, and promoting the adoption of early warning systems. Many NGOs work closely with local communities to develop flood preparedness plans tailored to the area's specific needs and risks.

These plans often include identifying safe shelters, developing evacuation routes, and stockpiling supplies. By empowering communities with the knowledge and tools needed to respond to floods, NGOs help reduce these disasters' overall impact.

During the response phase, NGOs are often among the first to arrive, providing immediate relief to flood-affected populations. They distribute food, clean water, medicine, and other essential supplies to those in need.

In addition to providing material support, NGOs also offer psychological support to flood victims, helping them cope with the disaster's trauma. Many NGOs operate mobile health clinics in flood-affected areas, ensuring that even the most remote communities can access medical care. These rapid response efforts are critical in preventing the spread of diseases and addressing flood victims' immediate needs.

Recovery is another critical area in which NGOs play a vital role. After the immediate crisis had passed, NGOs assisted in rehabilitating flood-affected communities. This includes rebuilding homes, schools, and other critical infrastructure damaged or destroyed by the floodwaters.

NGOs also provide livelihood support to help flood-affected families get back on their feet. This can include distributing seeds and farming tools to agricultural communities, providing microloans to small businesses, and providing vocational training programs to help individuals acquire new skills. By supporting recovery, NGOs help restore a sense of normalcy and stability to communities devastated by floods.

Many NGOs working in flood management focus on long-term mitigation. Recognising that flooding is a recurring challenge in Bangladesh, NGOs invest in projects to reduce communities' long-term vulnerability to floods. This includes the construction of flood-resistant infrastructure, such as elevated homes and flood barriers, and restoring natural ecosystems, such as mangroves and wetlands that can help absorb floodwaters.

NGOs also work to improve land use planning and promote sustainable agricultural practices that can reduce the impact of floods. These mitigation efforts are essential in building communities' resilience to future floods.

One of the critical strengths of NGOs in flood management is their ability to work at the grassroots level. NGOs often have strong relationships with local communities, allowing them to operate in areas difficult for government agencies to reach. This grassroots approach ensures that the needs and priorities of local communities are considered in flood management efforts.

Moreover, NGOs often adopt a participatory approach, involving community members in the planning and implementing flood management activities. This enhances the effectiveness of these efforts and empowers communities to take ownership of their flood management strategies.

Another critical aspect of NGO involvement in flood management is their ability to mobilise resources quickly. NGOs often have access to funding from international donors, which can be deployed soon in response to a flood. This allows them to provide timely and practical support to flood-affected communities.

In addition to financial resources, NGOs bring technical expertise and knowledge to flood management efforts. Many NGOs have specialised staff with expertise in disaster risk reduction, water and sanitation, and public health, which they can deploy in response to floods. This expertise is precious in designing and implementing effective flood management strategies.

NGOs also play a critical role in advocating for policies and practices that can reduce the impact of floods. They often work in partnership with government agencies, international organisations, and other stakeholders to promote the adoption of best practices in flood management.

This includes advocating for integrating climate change considerations into flood management strategies, promoting the adoption of community-based disaster risk reduction approaches, and encouraging innovative technologies in flood management. NGOs' advocacy efforts help shape the broader policy environment in flood management.

The role of NGOs in flood management in Bangladesh is also evident in their efforts to address the underlying drivers of vulnerability to floods. Many NGOs work on issues such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation, which can exacerbate the impact of floods. By addressing these underlying issues, NGOs contribute to the long-term resilience of communities to floods.

For example, NGOs may work to improve access to education and healthcare, promote sustainable livelihoods, and support the empowerment of women and marginalised groups. These efforts help build stronger, more resilient communities that can withstand the impact of floods.

NGOs play a vital and multifaceted role in flood management in Bangladesh. Their efforts span all flood management phases, from preparedness and response to recovery and mitigation. Through their grassroots approach, ability to mobilise resources, technical expertise, and advocacy efforts, NGOs are indispensable partners in the nation's flood management strategy.

As Bangladesh continues to face the challenges posed by floods, NGOs will remain crucial in helping to protect vulnerable communities and build resilience to future disasters.

The writer is a researcher and development worker.