The role of local government in managing disaster induced risk : A sociological study in Munshigonj

Abstract

This study examines the role of Local Government in managing induced risk in Munshigonj district. Munshigonj is a low lying alluvial delta located in the down area of Padma and Meghna alluvial. It is one of the country's' most vulnerable area prone to natural hazards and disasters. Its geographical location makes it subject to annual monsoon flood, but there are also a number of other risks that the people of locality face. The study found that disaster risk reduction(DRR) action at the local government level is now becoming an important issue in Bangladesh. It is evidence that local governments (Union Parishads) are very well positioned to reduce disaster risk in local areas, since they are familiar with the disaster risk experienced, as well as the resource and opportunities available to identify and manage those risks. The study further indicates that the underlying phenomenon for the limited success of Bangladesh in disaster management is the synergy developed through cooperative and harmonious efforts of different organizations and bodies in the society. Besides, voluntary movements as well as investments have been made in building coping capacity at the local level for disasters but the development planning at the national level is yet to encompass the paradigm of development is disaster reduction. The study further examined the concept of disaster and its management in the light of sustainable development by Local Government with particular reference to Bangladesh. It was revealed that, while hazard and disasters, anthropogenic origins, pose severe threat on both human and the physical environments. In all cases, the human tolls have been significant. The study discusses the role local government in disaster risk reduction literature review. The findings of the study was based on an extensive survey which identified and discussed the factors of risks underpinning socio-economic vulnerability with a broad range of individuals within the community including local stake holders, such as farmers, fishermen day labors, women and representatives of Union Parishad (Union Disaster Management Committee). The research further identified that the effective intervention of development programs taken by the local government reduces the risks of the community to a low extent in the disaster prone areas during flood in last five years in Bangladesh.