Govt steps up efforts to reduce lightning deaths
Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu on Monday told Parliament that the government is intensifying efforts to reduce deaths and injuries caused by thunderstorms through a combination of protective infrastructure, public awareness campaigns and technology-based warning systems.
Responding to a scripted question from ruling party lawmaker Shirin Sultana (Women Seat-2), the minister said measures are underway to plant palmyra palm trees, establish farmer shelters and install lightning rods in areas that are particularly vulnerable to lightning strikes.
“Initiatives are being taken to plant palmyra palm trees and install farmer shelters and lightning rods to reduce risk in lightning-prone areas,” he said.
Dulu said the initiatives are being implemented through coordinated efforts involving the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, the Department of Disaster Management, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, local administration and other relevant agencies.
He noted that awareness-building activities are being expanded to improve public understanding of lightning hazards and safety practices. These efforts include campaigns through mass media and social media, distribution of leaflets and posters, and various training programmes.
Highlighting the role of technology in disaster risk reduction, the minister said the Bangladesh Meteorological Department is providing lightning forecasts using a modern weather observation and forecasting system.
“As part of the technological system, lightning forecasts are being provided by the Bangladesh Meteorological Department through a modern weather observation and forecasting system,” said Dulu.
He added that advance warning messages are being disseminated through social media platforms, mass media outlets and local administrative channels to alert people before potential lightning incidents.
According to the minister, the early warning information is also being transmitted through the Integrated Voice Response (IVR) system, alongside other communication platforms, to ensure wider public reach.
