Analyzing the Socio-Economic Impacts of Cyclone at Pangasia Union in Dumki Upazila Under Patuakhali District, Bangladesh

Bangladesh is among the most cyclone-prone countries worldwide. The geographical location and climatic conditions of the country have been identified as contributing factors to the occurrence of cyclones and other natural disasters. Over the past century, Bangladesh has been impacted by 53 major cyclones. Cyclones have a significant impact on coastal Bangladesh, but the intensity and frequency of these storms poses a considerable threat to the Pangasia Union of Dumki Upazila. This Union is more vulnerable to cyclones than other regions of the upazila. The research explores the various socio-economic impacts of cyclones on livelihoods in this area and examines some adaptation strategies for reducing the impacts of cyclones. The study was conducted based on both primary and secondary data sources. Primary data sources included a household questionnaire survey, a focal group discussion (FGD), and key informant interviews. Secondary data sources included books, journals, and documents. The study’s findings illuminate the repercussions on agriculture, fisheries, livestock, health, and other social sectors. The findings of the study indicate that economic losses in these sectors are attributable to the impact of the cyclone. Agriculture is the sector most vulnerable to cyclones in the study area. Cultivated crop paddy is predominantly impacted by the cyclone. The maximum household or infrastructure present in this region is of a very poor quality. These infrastructures are particularly vulnerable to the effects of cyclones. A pervasive issue in this region is the substandard and deficient infrastructure. The efficacy of existing local and institutional strategies for mitigating the impacts of cyclones is questionable. The objective of the research is to investigate the socio-economic impact of cyclones and the scope of reducing the impact on lives and properties. In this regard, this study provides insight into adaptation strategies that can be employed to mitigate the socio-economic ramifications of cyclones.