Structural Mitigation Approach For Evacuation Of Cyclone On The Lens Of Intersectionality At Ranipur, Charkhali, Deuli, Kakrabunia In Mirzaganj Upazilla, Patuakhali

Abstract

Cyclones are a constant threat to the coastal regions of Bangladesh, where vulnerable communities face high risks due to both natural hazards and social inequalities. A field investigation of cyclone shelters in Mirzaganj upazila reveals that these facilities are underfunded, poorly managed, and discriminatory against people with disabilities, the elderly, and women. This research aims to develop a comprehensive cyclone mitigation strategy that integrates both structural and non-structural components. Through a detailed survey and data analysis using Kobotools, we identified key issues and proposed solutions to eliminate discrimination in shelters. Our approach emphasizes community-led management in non-structural mitigation and non-discriminatory shelter design in structural mitigation. While 54% of respondents visited a cyclone shelter, 46% did not, citing reasons such as inadequate transportation, security concerns, distance from home, risk perception, lack of food, and insufficient facilities like separate rooms and restrooms for men and women. Those who did visit shelters often faced violations of their rights. About 43.75% of women were denied breastfeeding rooms, 42% were denied menstruation restrooms, and 43.75% faced a lack of facilities for individuals with disabilities. Around 48% of respondents received early warnings through local government channels, and 43% via social media. Furthermore, 63% of respondents believed the cyclone shelters were unsuitable and required rebuilding, citing issues such as poor transportation, dark roads, fears of theft, and inadequate shelter conditions.