Role of ICT in Emergency Natural Disaster Management & Early Warning Systems of Bangladesh

Abstract

Natural disaster is a seasonal norm in Bangladesh. An abundance of rivers and other geological factors have paved the way for a series of natural calamities including flash floods, floods, cyclones, earthquakes, soil erosion, and other such calamities. These disasters wreak havoc affecting the lives of many. Public, as well as many private resources, are engulfed by these natural disasters. As a developing nation, it is very important to ensure continuous progress in terms of the socioeconomic conditions of the country. However, natural disasters are a great hindrance to this. The Government of Bangladesh (GoB) has been working to tackle this issue with disaster preparedness and management procedures available. GoB is working closely with the concerned international institutes to figure out procedures and methods suitable for the country in battling against such issues. The role of ICT is overwhelming in ensuring appropriate measures are taken in disaster management and preparedness. The impact of ICT has been recognized all over the world and it has proved to provide greater efficiency, speed, and effectiveness in minimizing the damage caused by natural disasters. In Bangladesh, the use of ICT has been prevalent since the inception of this country. Policy changes as well as recent improvements have eased the integration of ICT services for disaster management issues.