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, November 8 — The government has initiated a project designed to enhance the resilience and improve the living conditions of impoverished and vulnerable communities in Cox’s Bazar, one of Bangladesh’s most disaster-vulnerable areas, using sustainable, nature-focused approaches.

The initiative, named “PRO-ACT Bangladesh – Enhancing Resilience via Transformation of Agri-Food Systems in Cox’s Bazar,” will be carried out by the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) within the Ministry of Agriculture and is scheduled to continue until June 2028.

With a projected cost of Tk 53.01 crore, entirely supported by international donations, the initiative aims to enhance food and economic stability, encourage eco-friendly farming practices, and lower the likelihood of disasters in four upazilas – Cox’s Bazar Sadar, Ramu, Ukhiya, and Teknaf.

Credit availability for the agricultural sector can improve food security, says the Governor of Bangladesh Bank.

As part of the initiative, 10,000 farmers will get training and resources to grow crops that are high in nutrients, while 600 families engaged in fish farming will learn advanced methods for raising fish.

Additionally, 1,050 farmers will receive assistance in producing dry fish without toxins, along with support for branding and expanding market access.

The initiative also plans to establish five agricultural collection centers to enhance market access and encourage the use of information and communication technology for agricultural support services.

Local service providers and farmer organizations will receive training in financial education, digital technologies, and business development to enhance access to agricultural loans and reinforce supply chains.

To improve readiness for disasters, communities will be provided with training on the Landslide Early Warning System (LEWS), and land use maps based on crops will be created to incorporate disaster risk reduction into agricultural planning.

As per the Planning Commission, the project is expected to be crucial in reducing the negative impacts of climate change and tackling environmental damage exacerbated by the arrival of Rohingya refugees—such as deforestation, soil erosion, and flooding.

Food security in Bangladesh is under threat as agricultural land has decreased by 3.75 percent over eight years, according to a BBS survey.

Supported by the European Union and carried out in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Forest Department, and Department of Fisheries, PRO-ACT Bangladesh aims to revive ecosystems and enhance the resilience of at-risk communities.

The program seeks to assist over 54,000 people, such as small-scale farmers, women, and underprivileged communities, by transforming the agricultural food systems in Cox’s Bazar through climate-resilient farming practices, eco-friendly resource use, and equitable economic prospects.

Authorities stated that the initiative corresponds to Bangladesh’s extended-term climate adaptation objectives and highlights the government’s dedication to creating a robust future despite increasing climate difficulties.

Cox’s Bazar is regularly subjected to various natural disasters and severe weather events, including cyclones, intense rain, landslides, sudden floods, and tidal surges.

In recent times, the area has been especially prone to repeated landslides and cyclones.

The intensity of these disasters is made worse by extensive poverty and the restricted ability of local communities to handle such situations — approximately 33 percent of the district’s population lives below the poverty line, as reported by UNDP.

Starting from 2017, Cox’s Bazar has accommodated approximately one million Rohingya refugees, leading to a substantial rise in the number of people vulnerable.

The arrival of people has led to new environmental and safety issues, such as deforestation, land excavation, and increased strain on facilities. Due to densely populated areas, mountainous landscape, and temporary living situations, Rohingya families are especially vulnerable to extreme weather conditions.