Bangladesh on Sunday launched its National Roadmap for establishing Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems (MHEWS), aiming to ensure that every citizen receives timely and effective alerts against climate-related disasters.
The roadmap was introduced at the “National Early Warnings for All (EW4All) Roadmap Dissemination and Sharing Workshop,” at the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) conference hall.
The Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief arranged the workshop with support from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, BTRC, Bangladesh Red Crescent Society, and the World Food Programme (WFP).
The initiative aligns with the global “Early Warnings for All” (EW4All) campaign, announced by the UN Secretary-General in 2022, which seeks to bring the entire world under early warning coverage by 2027, said a press release.
Adviser to the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief Faruk E Azam said the roadmap reflects a national commitment to protect vulnerable people.
“This roadmap is not just a plan; it is our commitment to the people of Bangladesh to minimise the loss of lives of disaster-affected citizens and to protect our limited resources,” he said.
Kabir Md Ashraf Alam, Secretary of the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society, stressed the importance of reaching every citizen with life-saving information.
“Our goal is very clear – to ensure that every person in Bangladesh receives timely and effective early warnings,” he said, noting that the organization’s nationwide volunteer network has been delivering rapid and reliable messages since 1972.
Swedish Ambassador to Bangladesh Nicolas Weeks said, “Early warning is not merely a tool; it is a fundamental right. Preparedness saves lives and resources. Effective systems support human security, economic stability, and sustainable development.”
BTRC Chairman Major General Md Emdad Ul Bari emphasized the role of technology in delivering accurate alerts.
Around 140 senior participants joined the workshop including officials from key ministries such as Disaster Management and Relief, Environment, Finance, and top representatives from BTRC, Bangladesh Meteorological Department, and Disaster Management Department. Delegates from the UN, development partners, and the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society also took part.
The event featured open discussions and a high-level panel on the strategic importance of implementing the roadmap nationally.
