Staff Reporter, Dhaka : Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, has said that adaptation efforts will be strengthened to combat the impacts of climate change. In particular, sustainable and science-based initiatives will be designed and implemented to ensure the livelihoods and security of people in coastal, hilly, and drought-prone areas.

The Advisor made these remarks while presiding over a meeting on ‘Climate Change Adaptation Initiatives’ at the Ministry’s conference room in the Bangladesh Secretariat today.

Rizwana Hasan emphasized that hands-on training will be provided on climate-resilient crop seeds, fish fry production, and improved agricultural techniques. Additionally, timely access to weather and climate information, along with regular agricultural advisory services, will be ensured.

Environment Advisor stated that the government is committed to undertaking necessary adaptation projects. Adaptation activities will be planned and implemented based on the needs and realities of local communities, through coordinated efforts between government and non-government stakeholders.

She highlighted the need for a collaborative and inclusive adaptation framework to face the challenges of climate change. She stressed the importance of sharing experiences on how to make fallow lands cultivable across the country. Furthermore, she noted that farmers would benefit from solar-powered irrigation systems, which would reduce costs, increase crop yields, and enhance their income.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Farhina Ahmed, Secretary of the Ministry of Environment; Mohammad Navid Shafiullah, Additional Secretary; Dharitri Kumar Sarkar, Joint Secretary; along with officials from the Ministry and representatives of non-governmental organization.

Participants exchanged views on current adaptation activities, challenges, and the way forward.