Fallout from cyclone Sitrang: Bangladesh has a lot to recover from

Before descending into a depression and weakening, cyclone Sitrang claimed the lives of at least 18 people in seven districts of Bangladesh. We are deeply saddened by their tragic deaths, but we would like to commend the authorities for evacuating most of the people that were in harm's way, and avoiding even greater loss of lives. At the same time, we would like to remind the authorities, different aid groups, and people in general, that the biggest challenges are still ahead of us.

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Sitrang whips through south and beyond

Besides claiming lives, Sitrang caused immense damage across Bangladesh. According to a report by this newspaper, coastal districts of the country have been experiencing disruptions to road and power links. And it is being suspected that the cyclone has caused heavy damage to houses and crops – and agricultural experts had warned prior to the cyclone descending that the damage caused to crops could lead to significant food insecurities for Bangladesh given the current global circumstances. The authorities need to evaluate the extent of the damage, and take appropriate measures to mitigate the damage and ensure our food security.

Moreover, providing immediate relief and rehabilitation to those who have been affected should right now be the government's number one priority. It is important to be aware of any potential waterborne disease that may arise after the floods brought about by the cyclone. The government and aid agencies should stockpile and start distributing necessary medicines to the affected people.

Reportedly, even though the authorities had suspended the operations of all types of water transports, at least 13 trawlers had capsized in the Bay of Bengal late at night. It needs to be investigated how that occurred, and preparations should be made to ensure that no such incidents happen again in future.

In 2020, Cyclone Amphan, only the second "super cyclone" ever recorded over the Bay of Bengal, killed more than 100 people in Bangladesh and India, and affected millions. Last year, Cyclone Yaas battered India's east coast, and this year, Bangladesh just got hit by cyclone Sitrang. With COP 27 right around the corner, Bangladeshi representatives should make a strong case to the international community at the climate summit to provide necessary funding for Bangladesh to mitigate against such damage.

Aside from appealing for funds, the government needs to recognise that it needs to move away from destructive development projects that are wreaking havoc on the environment, and putting communities at increasing risks. At the same time, it needs to ensure proper utilisation of existing funds for climate change related projects, as it is becoming increasingly clear that Bangladesh right now is at the mercy of natural disasters that are occurring more frequently as a result of climate change.