A workshop on integrating land use risk into risk-sensitive land use planning and mountain management policies was held in Bandarban.The workshop was held on Tuesday (December 9) in the meeting room of the Holiday Inn Resort.It is being funded by the European Commission’s ECHO (European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations).This workshop was organized to identify actions to address climate-induced landslide displacement in Chittagong and Bandarban, implemented as a joint initiative of Ashika Development Associates,Rhymes and Save the Children.
Chittagong and the hilly regions,especially Bandarban district,are facing increasing landslide risks due to rainfall,deforestation, and unplanned development activities.In this situation,the workshop discussed how landslide risk and potential displacement issues can be more effectively incorporated into existing land use and mountain management policies.The workshop was held with the coordinated participation of district administration, government departments,technical institutions, ngo,community representatives and youth volunteers.
Deputy Commissioner Shamim Ara Rini was present as the chief guest at the workshop organized under the chairmanship by Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Md.Abu Taleb.The workshop was welcomed speech by Sajal Tanchangya,Coordinator, Resource Mobilization and Advocacy (ASHIKA Development Associates). Md.Mustaq Hossain,Director Humanitarian (Save the Children) in his speech emphasized land use planning.
Participants received technical presentations on landslide prediction systems,existing gaps in mountain management frameworks and the importance of early warning measures to protect vulnerable populations.Through group discussions,draft recommendations necessary for the formulation of risk-aware land use plans were also formulated.
Speaking at the workshop,senior representatives from the district administration and others emphasized the need to consider disaster risk in the development plans of the hill districts and strengthen inter-institutional coordination.A clear direction emerged from the extensive discussions among experts,policymakers, and technical representatives participating in the workshop.Participants agreed that it is essential to integrate risks into existing land use plans and mountain management policies to address the increasing landslide risk and resulting displacement in mountainous areas.
Based on the discussion,special emphasis was placed on more effectively incorporating displacement-related issues into future policies and plans,considering landslides as a permanent and recurring disaster. Representatives from the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs,Ministry of Environment,Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief,Ministry of Land, Ministry of Law,Department of Forests and local stakeholders were urged to work collectively on the formulation and implementation of risk-sensitive land-use policies.
Deputy Commissioner of Bandarban Shamim Ara Rini said that,due to the geographic vulnerability of the hilly region, anticipatory action initiatives are highly relevant here.Landslide-prone areas need to be identified scientifically and early warning systems should be strengthened.She praised the efforts of development organizations working in the hill districts and encouraged collective initiatives for sustainable solutions.
Finally,all participating organizations presented their action plans.The workshop concluded with discussions on the importance of ensuring safety for hill communities,enhancing early-warning capacities and reducing landslide risks through effective policy intervention and community-based preparedness activities.