Understanding Climate Vulnerability in Bangladesh: Key Findings from the CVI 2024 Report

 Introduction

Bangladesh remains one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, frequently experiencing extreme weather events such as cyclones, floods, droughts, and sea-level rise. These climate-related hazards pose significant threats to the country's infrastructure, agriculture, and overall socio-economic development. The Climatic Vulnerability Index (CVI) 2024 Report, commissioned by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Bangladesh, provides an in-depth analysis of climate risks across different administrative units, from districts to unions, municipalities, and city corporations. This report aims to aid policymakers in disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation planning by providing a comprehensive understanding of vulnerability patterns and necessary adaptation measures.

Key Findings of the CVI 2024 Report

Climate Exposure: Increasing Risks of Extreme Weather

The report identifies rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and more frequent cyclones as major exposure risks. Data collected from 1991–2020 highlights significant climate trends that indicate worsening conditions for the country’s vulnerable regions. The average maximum temperature has increased over time, leading to intensified heat stress and negative impacts on agriculture. Rainfall variability has worsened, resulting in both prolonged droughts and severe flooding, which disrupt farming, displace populations, and increase waterborne diseases. Cyclonic events such as Sidr (2007), Aila (2009), and Amphan (2020) continue to devastate coastal areas, making them more susceptible to erosion, saltwater intrusion, and long-term environmental degradation.

Sensitivity: Socioeconomic and Infrastructure Challenges

The sensitivity component of CVI assesses how communities are affected by climate hazards based on socio-economic and infrastructural factors. High population density and poor housing conditions exacerbate vulnerability, particularly in slum areas and low-lying coastal zones. Agriculture, fisheries, and small industries face severe economic disruptions due to unpredictable weather patterns and disasters. Weak transport networks, limited access to clean water, and inadequate health facilities further expose communities to climate-induced hardships, underscoring the urgent need for resilience-building strategies.

Adaptive Capacity: Variations in Climate Resilience

Adaptive capacity, or the ability to cope with climate impacts, varies significantly across different regions of Bangladesh. Areas with higher literacy rates, diversified employment opportunities, and stronger institutional support structures tend to demonstrate better resilience. Access to disaster shelters and emergency response mechanisms is crucial but remains unevenly distributed, with rural and coastal communities suffering from inadequate facilities. While urban areas like Dhaka North City Corporation show better preparedness, coastal districts like Patuakhali struggle with higher vulnerability due to weaker infrastructure, lack of economic diversification, and insufficient long-term planning.

Regional Disparities in Climate Vulnerability

The CVI mapping at different administrative levels reveals significant regional disparities in climate vulnerability. At the district level, Munshiganj has the lowest vulnerability (CVI 0.408), while Patuakhali is the most vulnerable (CVI 0.570). At the upazila level, Akhaura is least vulnerable (CVI 0.383), whereas Rangabali is the most climate-sensitive (CVI 0.613). Sonarang Tongibari in Munshiganj has the lowest union-level CVI (0.339), while Gabura in Satkhira has the highest (0.648). Among city corporations, Dhaka North is least vulnerable (CVI 0.416), and Khulna ranks highest in vulnerability (CVI 0.549). These variations highlight the need for targeted climate adaptation policies that address localized vulnerabilities rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Recommendations for Climate Adaptation

Short-Term Strategies for Immediate Action

In the short term, the report suggests implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for disaster response based on CVI data. These SOPs should ensure that disaster response teams are well-equipped and trained to handle climate-induced emergencies effectively. Stakeholder training programs should be conducted to enhance awareness and adaptive strategies among communities, particularly those living in high-risk zones. Inter-ministerial coordination between the Local Government Division (LGD) and the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief (MoDMR) is crucial to strengthen disaster risk reduction efforts at all administrative levels, ensuring that national policies translate into effective local actions.

Long-Term Strategies for Sustainable Resilience

For long-term resilience, continuous research and regular CVI updates are necessary to ensure policies remain data-driven and relevant to emerging climate trends. The development of a geospatial climate damage assessment tool can help in better resource allocation and planning by integrating real-time climate risk assessments. Local Government Institutions (LGIs) should incorporate CVI data into their budget planning processes to ensure climate-resilient infrastructure projects receive adequate funding. Investing in climate-smart agriculture, improved urban drainage systems, and eco-friendly building technologies will be key in mitigating future risks.

Furthermore, climate adaptation policies should focus on enhancing early warning systems, promoting nature-based solutions such as mangrove restoration and reforestation, and strengthening public-private partnerships to facilitate funding for climate resilience projects. A greater emphasis on community-driven climate adaptation initiatives, including skills training in alternative livelihoods, can significantly reduce the economic vulnerability of disaster-prone populations.

Conclusion

The CVI 2024 Report provides a crucial framework for addressing climate vulnerabilities in Bangladesh. By leveraging spatial data and GIS-based mapping, the study offers valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and development partners. The findings underscore the urgent need for localized adaptation strategies that consider the diverse climate risks faced by different administrative units. Implementing the recommendations outlined in the report will be essential to building resilience and securing a sustainable future for Bangladesh’s climate-affected communities. With strategic planning, strong governance, and community participation, Bangladesh can take meaningful steps toward mitigating climate risks and fostering a climate-resilient society.

Sources:

The findings of this article are based on the CVI 2024 UNDP Bangladesh Report, which incorporates data from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) Climate Data (1991–2020), Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC), and Bangladesh Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan (BCCSAP) 2009.