Photo : BSS

RANGPUR, March 10, 2025 (BSS) - Speakers at a discussion underscored the need for creating awareness to deal with natural disasters in view of the adverse impact of climate change.
 
They also suggested taking various initiatives to give people an idea about pre-disaster preparedness and dealing with the aftereffects of natural calamities.
 
The district administration organised the discussion at the Deputy Commissioner's conference room, marking the National Disaster Preparedness Day-2025.
 
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Rabiul Faisal was present as the chief guest at the discussion.
 
The Deputy Commissioner said that geographically the country's northern region is identified as a disaster-prone area. Natural disasters like cyclones, lightning, fires, road accidents, and floods are common in this region throughout the year.
 
He said, "Thanks to technology, we get predictions of natural disasters. As a result, it is possible to reduce the damage to a large extent by formulating and implementing proper plans to deal with disasters."
 
Regarding water bodies, he said, the number and areas of water bodies are decreasing day by day due to unplanned construction of houses by filling canals, beels, and ponds.
 
"Therefore, if a fire breaks out somewhere, it is not possible to extinguish it quickly due to lack of water. The water bodies that still exist should not be filled. For this, the Water Development Board must take effective steps," he said.
 
He said that in addition to increasing awareness to deal with natural disasters, various initiatives should be taken to give people an idea about pre-disaster preparations for implementing those properly.
 
Rangpur District Relief and Rehabilitation Officer Md. Motahar Hossain and Rangpur Fire Service and Civil Defence Deputy Assistant Director Md. Badsha Masud Alam delivered speeches as special guests at the event.
 
Government officials, members of the Fire Service and Civil Defence, journalists, NGO workers, and students were present at the event.
 
After the discussion, the Rangpur Fire Service and Civil Defence Station conducted a mock drill on earthquake and fire preparedness on the premises of the Deputy Commissioner's office.