WB approves $270m to support Bangladesh’s flood recovery

The World Bank has approved $270 million in financing to help Bangladesh recover from the flooding last year and strengthen its resilience to future climate-related disasters.

The funds, approved by the World Bank's Board of Executive Directors on May 14, will support the Bangladesh Sustainable Recovery, Emergency Preparedness and Response (B-STRONG) Project, according to a press release.

The project will focus on rebuilding and climate-proofing flood protection infrastructure in Sylhet and Chattogram divisions, aiming to safeguard 16 lakh people.

It will also promote climate-resilient agriculture and improve livelihoods in flood-affected communities.

"Bangladesh is regarded as a leader in climate change adaptation and disaster preparedness. But the increasing climate risks and more frequent and severe natural disasters take a heavy toll on communities and the economy," said Gayle Martin, interim country director for Bangladesh at the World Bank.

The project includes constructing or rehabilitating 79 multi-purpose flood shelters that will function as schools during normal times, repairing roads and bridges, restoring embankments, and improving flood forecasting systems.

It will also help communities prepare for future disasters through training, equipment support, and emergency drills. To promote long-term resilience, the initiative will offer temporary jobs, market-relevant skills training, and financial assistance, targeting over 380,000 people.

Additionally, around 65,000 farm households will be supported in adopting climate-smart agricultural technologies, receiving access to quality seeds, machinery, and better irrigation systems.

"B-STRONG provides truly integrated responses that combine physical and non-physical interventions, ensuring a holistic approach to recovery and resilience building," said Swarna Kazi, senior disaster risk management specialist and task team leader.

The World Bank, one of Bangladesh's earliest development partners, has committed over $45 billion in grants and interest-free credits to the country since its independence.