The World Bank has approved $270 million financing to bolster Bangladesh’s flood recovery efforts and enhance its resilience to future disasters, according to UNB.
The funds are reported to cover support for constructing and rehabilitating critical infrastructure, strengthening agricultural system, and improving livelihoods in areas devastated by the August 2024 floods. The Bangladesh Sustainable Recovery, Emergency Preparedness and Response (B-STRONG) Project will build and reconstruct rural and flood protection infrastructure in Chattogram and Sylhet divisions, providing protection to 1.6 million people, according to a release from the World Bank on Thursday.
Taking a comprehensive approach, the project will also promote climate resilient agriculture and help the vulnerable communities with livelihood support.
World Bank Interim Country Director for Bangladesh Gayle Martin said that Bangladesh is regarded as a leader in climate change adaptation and disaster preparedness. “But the increasing climate risks and more frequent and severe natural disasters take a heavy toll on communities and the economy. Building resilience against natural disasters is both a development and an economic priority for Bangladesh,” he said.
He mentioned that this project will strengthen the country’s disaster preparedness system and improve livelihoods and bolster food security for those affected the most by floods in Sylhet and Chattogram divisions.
