BANDARBAN, Sept 11, 2024 (BSS) - The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), the apex and influential private sector forum in Bangladesh, has joined forces with the Bandarban Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry to form a Volunteer Disaster Management Team aimed at bolstering disaster management in the landslide-prone region of Bandarban.

This initiative, a central element of the Bangladesh Preparedness Partnership (BPP), seeks to fortify local preparedness and enhance response capabilities.

The collaboration was launched today here during a significant meeting that brought together key representatives from both organizations, along the leaders of Bandarban business and commerce industries, a press release said.

The partnership is focused on achieving several key objectives. One of the main goals is the formation of the PERT, which will be equipped to handle emergency situations with expertise and efficiency. Additionally, the initiative will establish Safety Cells at the district level, which will play a crucial role in overseeing and supporting the PERT's activities, ensuring that they are well-prepared for any disaster scenario. Furthermore, the collaboration aims to enhance coordination between local businesses and district administration, thereby fostering more comprehensive and effective disaster management strategies.

Lalchhani Lusai, President of the Bandarban Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry, expressed her heartfelt gratitude for FBCCI's commitment to including Bandarban in this critical project.

She pledged her organization's full support and underscored the vital role that local business communities play in strengthening disaster preparedness.

Brigadier General (retd) Abu Naim Md. Shahidullah, Advisor to the FBCCI Safety Council, highlighted the significance of the partnership and the objectives of the BPP Phase-2 project.

He called for continued support and active participation from the Bandarban Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Additionally, he extended his thanks to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for their financial support and the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center for their technical assistance.

This collaboration is set to make a substantial impact on Bandarban's disaster readiness and response capabilities, contributing significantly to the safety and resilience of the community.