Abstract
Cyclones pose a persistent threat to the coastal regions of Bangladesh, where vulnerable communities experience high levels of risk due to both natural hazards and social inequalities.It is clear from a field investigation of cyclone shelters in Mirzaganj upazila that these facilities are underfunded, poorly run, and discriminatory against people with disabilities, age, and gender. The goal of our research is to provide a comprehensive strategy for cyclone mitigation that incorporates both structural and non-structural elements. In order to identify discriminatory problems and come up with remedies, we carried out a thorough data survey in the region and used Kobotools for data analysis. Our initiative exemplifies a comprehensive strategy for mitigating cyclones that eradicates prejudice among those seeking refuge. It stresses community-led management in the non-structural mitigation component and a non-discriminatory shelter design in the structural mitigation method. Approximately 54% of individuals visited a cyclone shelter, while 46% did not. We found a number of reasons why people choose not to go, including inadequate transportation, security concerns, shelter distance from home, risk perception, inadequate food, lack of separate rooms for men and women, lack of a separate restroom for men and women, lack of a space for breastfeeding, and lack of a menstruation toilet. However, those who visited the cyclone shelter received certain amenities, but it was evident that their rights were being violated. About 43.75% of respondents said they were denied access to a room for breastfeeding, 42% of women said they were denied a menstruation restroom, and 43.75% said they were denied facilities for individuals with disabilities. Approximately 48% of individuals received early warnings from their local government, and 43% received them via social media. Approximately 63% of respondents believe that they are not a good fit for the cyclone shelter. The cyclone shelter has to be rebuilt. They cited a number of reasons, including inadequate transportation, dark roads at night, theft fears, and the unsuitability of the products.
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