Recently, experts gathered at the Third Coastal Water Conference in Khulna, Bangladesh, highlighting the urgent need for effective water management policies. They warned that without immediate action, the southern region of the country could become uninhabitable.
Climate change and other factors are putting immense pressure on coastal water resources. This not only threatens the area’s biodiversity but also the livelihoods of millions. Fisheries and agriculture—two pillars of the local economy—are facing severe challenges.
Professor Dr. Ainun Nishat, a respected expert in environment and water studies, pointed out the lack of focus on coastal issues at the state level. He mentioned that while a global agreement was reached in 2023, concrete actions in Bangladesh remain largely absent. He noted six cyclones that occurred last year, all sparing Bangladesh, but warned that a future storm could inundate vast areas. “If a 17-foot storm surge like the one in Florida hit us, areas like Faridpur would be underwater,” he said.
Another alarming prediction comes from Professor Anwarul Qadir of the Sundarbans Academy, who stated that in the next 50 years, the water in Khulna could become as salty as the sea. He stressed the importance of creating collaborative water projects with neighboring countries like India and Nepal to secure vital resources.
Professor Dr. Maruful Islam from Dhaka University emphasized that rivers do much more than provide water; they carry sediments crucial for the ecosystem. If current trends continue, the rising salinity could transform the southwestern coastal region into an inhospitable marine environment, significantly harming agricultural and fisheries output.
Despite the construction of flood control embankments, maintenance has been lacking, often ignoring the input of local communities. “Effective water management must include the voices of those affected,” he said. This collaborative approach is seen as essential for securing a sustainable future.
According to a recent report from the World Bank, about 30% of Bangladesh’s population resides in coastal areas. Climate change impacts, including salinity intrusion, could jeopardize food security and water availability for these communities. As Bangladesh attempts to address these pressing challenges, the voices of experts and those in affected areas will be crucial in shaping effective policies.
The conference will wrap up with the adoption of the ‘Khulna Declaration,’ aiming to outline actionable steps forward. If we want to protect our coastlines and the people who depend on them, our next moves are critical.
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