The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has activated anticipatory action to deliver emergency cash support to communities at risk of severe flooding in Moulvibazar and Habiganj in Sylhet, officials said on Thursday.
Under the programme, which uses weather forecasts and pre-set triggers to release aid in advance, Tk5,000 has been transferred directly to vulnerable households. The first disbursement was made on the evening of 29 April, ahead of peak flooding expected within 48 hours.
Early action saves lives
The assistance allows families to prepare in advance by purchasing food and other essential items, as well as safeguarding their homes and livelihoods. By acting before floodwaters rise, anticipatory action helps reduce loss of lives and livelihoods compared to traditional responses that take place after disasters strike.
As of 30 April, more than 20,000 households have already received the cash and early warning messages. The response is supported through funding from WFP trust funds and the European Commission’s Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations.
Social safety net integration
Under this response, beneficiaries of government social safety nets — a further 4,400 households — are also being reached with cash top-ups to meet their emergency needs. This reflects WFP’s longstanding collaboration with the government to strengthen national social protection systems and make them more responsive to climate shocks such as flash floods.
Climate crisis intensifies
“As climate shocks become more frequent and severe, early action is essential,” said Simone Parchment, WFP Country Director a.i., who is currently in Sylhet overseeing the response. “Through anticipatory action, families can prepare in advance — whether that means securing food, protecting assets, or moving to safer places. It gives families the time and resources they need to prepare for floods, protect livelihoods, and reduce disaster impacts.”
Bangladesh among highest-risk nations
Bangladesh is among the countries most at risk from climate change. The World Risk Index 2024 ranks Bangladesh ninth worldwide for disaster risk. Since 2017, WFP has been implementing anticipatory action in Bangladesh under government leadership, with support from partners including the European Union, Germany, Ireland, and the Korea International Cooperation Agency.
Cost-effective approach
Anticipatory action is aligned with global best practices, which show that investing early can significantly reduce humanitarian needs and disaster-related losses. According to a recent study by WFP and partners, every USD 1 invested in anticipatory action can generate up to USD 7 in avoided losses and additional benefits.
