National Disaster Preparedness Day 2025 Observed in Bhola, Bangladesh

Disaster awareness and preparedness are essential components of disaster risk management, focusing on measures to prepare for and mitigate the effects of disasters while predicting and preventing them where possible. Given Bangladesh's vulnerability to natural disasters, the country has been observing National Disaster Preparedness Day (NDPD) annually since 1997. Every year, March 10 is marked as National Disaster Preparedness Day to raise awareness and motivate people to manage disasters effectively. The theme for NDPD this year was: “Durable Forecast Preparation – Saving Lives, Reducing Losses.” To promote disaster preparedness, the Bangladesh government, in collaboration with various NGOs, has undertaken numerous initiatives aimed at building a disaster-resilient community. Observance of NDPD in Bhola In Bhola, the Shushilan family members observed the day in coordination with the district and upazila administration. The event was marked by rallies, discussion meetings, and firefighting demonstrations organized by the district administration and disaster management department. The day's activities began with a colorful rally at 10:00 a.m. from the Deputy Commissioner’s office, passing through various roads in Bhola. The rally was led by Deputy Commissioner Md. Azad Jahan. To highlight urban disaster risk reduction, the Fire Service and Civil Defense Department conducted a disaster response mock drill, demonstrating the role of first responders and urban volunteers in emergency situations. A discussion meeting followed at the Deputy Commissioner’s conference room, chaired by Md. Mizanur Rahman, Deputy Director of Local Government. As part of the event, T-shirts and caps were distributed to participants, funded by government departments and several NGOs, including Shushilan. Team members from Shushilan-Bhola, Charfashion, and Lalmohon actively participated in all activities alongside government officials and other NGOs. This observance reinforced the importance of disaster preparedness and community resilience, encouraging collective efforts to minimize disaster risks and protect lives.