Agricultural Vulnerabilities and Associated Disaster Risk Reduction in Riverine Ecosystem of Bangladesh

Bangladesh, characterized by its riverine ecosystem, is highly susceptible to natural disasters, including floods, cyclones, and riverbank erosion, which pose significant threats to its agricultural sector. The agricultural sector in Bangladesh is the backbone of its economy, providing livelihoods for a significant portion of the population. However, frequent natural disasters often lead to crop loss, soil erosion, and infrastructure damage, exacerbating food insecurity and poverty levels. The riverine nature of Bangladesh amplifies these vulnerabilities, as rivers regularly overflow during monsoon seasons, inundating vast agricultural lands. Climate change exacerbates these challenges, leading to erratic rainfall patterns, rise in sea level, and an increase in frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. As a result, there is an urgent need for effective disaster risk reduction strategies to enhance the resilience of the agricultural sector in the riverine ecosystem of Bangladesh. By integrating climate-resilient agricultural practices with effective risk management measures, Bangladesh can enhance its adaptive capacity and safeguard the livelihoods of millions dependent on agriculture in the face of escalating climate-related hazards. This study discussed the extent of different disasters, impacts, and adaptation strategies and their challenges to changing climate in the riverine areas of Bangladesh.