Proper disaster preparedness could cut industrial losses

A three-day training programme aiming to ensure continued industrial production and minimise losses during disasters kicked off at the Mongla Export Processing Zone (EPZ) in Khulna on Monday.

The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) and the Mongla EPZ Authority jointly arranged the event titled "Disaster Preparedness, Business Continuity, and Multi-Hazard Management". Officials and employees from various factories operating in the EPZ are participating in the training programme.

Executive Director of Mongla EPZ Kalam Md. Abul Bashar inaugurated the opening session. In his address, Bashar emphasised that proper disaster preparedness and prompt action during emergencies could significantly reduce industrial losses and help sustain productivity in the manufacturing sector. He also welcomed FBCCI's initiative to promote a safer and more resilient business environment through such capacity-building programmes.

Additional Executive Director of Mongla EPZ Waheduzzaman delivered the welcome remarks. He highlighted the importance of enhancing factory-level capacity to reduce disaster risks, noting that the training would strengthen both the competence and preparedness of the participants.

Programme Coordinator of the FBCCI Safety Council Md. Manjur Kader Khan explained the objectives, activities, and ongoing initiatives under the project in detail. He said that under the Bangladesh Preparedness Partnership (BPP) project of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, FBCCI has been working to build the capacity and awareness of the country's industrial and commercial enterprises in disaster management.

He expressed the hope that combined efforts by the government and the private sector would help foster a sustainable and safe business environment in Bangladesh. He also extended sincere thanks to the Gates Foundation for financial support and the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC) for technical assistance.

Director (Administration) of Mongla EPZ Md. Kawsar Hossain, officials from the EPZ Zone Office and representatives from the FBCCI Safety Council, were present, according to a handout of the apex trade body.

talhabinhabib@yahoo.com