NN Online:
Bangladesh needs sustained support from development partners to address the long-term impacts of climate change, including floods, droughts, cyclones, and heatwaves, which cost the country 1–2% of its GDP annually, speakers said at the closing ceremony of PKSF’s ‘giz-Haor’ project.
The event, held at PKSF Bhaban in Dhaka, marked the conclusion of the project titled Climate-resilient Infrastructure for Sustainable Community Life in the Haor Region of Bangladesh, funded by the German government.
PKSF Chairman Zakir Ahmed Khan chaired the programme, with Economic Relations Division Secretary Md Shahriar Kader Siddiky attending as Chief Guest. Additional Secretary Dr Fahmida Khanom and German Embassy Deputy Head of Development Cooperation Ulrich Kleppmann were present as special guests.
Siddiky said Bangladesh has implemented over 800 projects under the Climate Change Trust Fund and currently allocates 6–7% of its national budget to combat climate change. He encouraged PKSF to replicate the ‘giz-Haor’ project’s success on a broader scale.
Zakir Ahmed Khan highlighted PKSF’s commitment to transparency and effectiveness, while Managing Director Md Fazlul Kader shared how PKSF initiatives are enhancing adaptation capacity in vulnerable areas.
Under the project, climate-resilient infrastructure such as revetments and retaining walls were built in Sunamganj, benefiting around 7,500 families. Elevated community spaces are preserving crops, and tree plantations are conserving biodiversity.
German envoy Kleppmann reiterated Germany’s support through 53 ongoing development projects, and Dr Khanom emphasized the need for joint efforts from government, private sector, and NGOs to tackle climate change effectively.
