Build a resilient future

In Bangladesh, people have been struggling through epochs of warfare against the wild, cyclones, and floods. Recently, a new combatant has joined this battle - heatwaves. Heatwaves are escalating not only in Bangladesh but also globally. Consequently, the increase in temperature is impacting human life, nature, and the world of flora and fauna.

According to multiple news sources published today, Saturday (April 20), the Meteorological Department has issued a heat alert for three days due to the increasing heatwave sweeping over the country.

From tomorrow, Sunday (April 21), educational institutions will reopen. Educational institutions are reopening after the Eid holiday. There is talk of conducting preliminary exams and various tests in many educational institutions. Parents are concerned about how students will go to school amidst such intense heat. Therefor, some parents are demanding school closures. A teacher from a primary school in the capital, who wishes to remain anonymous, has informed the media that the school needs to be closed for a few days. The reason being, there is a concern that children may fall ill due to the heat if there is no electricity in the classrooms. Professor M. Tarik Ahsan, of the Dhaka University's Institute of Education and Research, believes that through a joint decision-making process, possibly via a meeting convened by the Ministry of Education, a coordinated decision should be made regarding the closure of educational institutions amidst the heatwave.

During this heatwave, the amount of atmospheric moisture in the air is significantly higher, leading to increased humidity. This can cause discomfort among people. In such circumstances, experts recommend drinking plenty of water, wearing light-colored clothing, and consuming salted water to stay hydrated.

According to the information from the Meteorological Department, yesterday (April 19), the highest temperature recorded in the country was 41.5 degrees Celsius in Chuadanga. This marks the highest temperature recorded so far this year. When the maximum temperature in an area exceeds 40 degrees Celsius, it is considered a severe heatwave. If the temperature exceeds 42 degrees Celsius, it is categorized as an extreme heatwave. Last year, on April 17, the temperature in Ishwardi, Pabna, reached 43 degrees Celsius. This was the highest temperature recorded last year. Meteorologists are concerned that this year's temperature may surpass that record as well.

The situation can be quite alarming to estimate. Heatstroke has already resulted in fatalities in several locations across the country. In some areas, the situation is further exacerbated by frequent power outages, leading to more severe conditions. In the capital, where green spaces are limited and the population density is high, residents are experiencing even more extreme discomfort.

Scientists and researchers are warning that if the current rate of temperature rise continues, coping with its impact will become increasingly challenging for humans. The devastating consequences of temperature increase will also be observed in nature and the environment. Extreme heatwaves will become more frequent. Since the source of climate change is global, its solutions and management must also be global. Success in addressing these challenges is possible only through coordinated efforts, effective policies, comprehensive planning, and efficient governance that integrate global and national initiatives. Only then can concerted efforts be successful. The proliferation of high-rise buildings, concrete roads, and air conditioning has transformed Dhaka into a sweltering urban landscape, exacerbating adverse conditions. Therefore, achieving a sustainable and resilient future for all of us requires significant collaboration among governments, international and regional organizations, and private entities.

If disasters are not declared as emergencies in such situations, people's lives will be jeopardized. Alongside declaring emergencies, governmental assistance is also crucial for public health protection. Providing food and healthcare to low-income individuals should be prioritized above all. Those with limited income, if compelled to leave their homes during this intense heat, will face life-threatening risks.