$270M World Bank Project to Boost Bangladesh’s Flood Recovery and Resilience

The World Bank has approved a substantial $270 million financing package to support Bangladesh in its efforts to recover from the catastrophic floods of August 2024 and to build long-term resilience against future climate-induced disasters. The initiative, formally titled the Bangladesh Sustainable Recovery, Emergency Preparedness and Response (B-STRONG) Project, will focus on immediate recovery and long-term adaptation efforts, particularly in the vulnerable regions of Chattogram and Sylhet Divisions.

Project Overview and Goals

The B-STRONG project is designed to help Bangladesh mitigate the severe aftermath of the 2024 floods, which inflicted widespread damage across Eastern districts, displacing thousands and severely impacting agriculture, infrastructure, and livelihoods. The overarching goal is twofold: to rehabilitate and reconstruct essential flood-impacted infrastructure and to strengthen the country’s capacity to prepare for and respond to future climate events.

Key objectives of the project include:

• Rebuilding rural infrastructure and constructing flood-resilient facilities.

• Supporting sustainable, climate-smart agriculture.

• Enhancing disaster preparedness systems.

• Offering livelihood recovery and skill development programs for affected communities.

Infrastructure Recovery and Resilience Building

A major focus of the project is infrastructure reconstruction. B-STRONG will fund the construction and rehabilitation of 79 multi-purpose flood shelters, which will double as primary schools during normal conditions. These shelters are not only critical for emergency response but also vital community centers that improve overall resilience.

Furthermore, the initiative will restore flood protection infrastructure, including embankments, roads, bridges, and canals, ensuring climate-proof designs to withstand future disasters. The project will also upgrade flood forecasting systems to allow for better early warning and rapid response mechanisms.

Agricultural System Strengthening and Food Security

Recognizing the devastation the floods brought to agriculture, B-STRONG will support at least 65,000 farming households. These households will gain access to:

• High-yielding and climate-resilient crop varieties.

• Agricultural machinery and tools.

• Improved irrigation systems and storage infrastructure.

The initiative will also establish seed villages to ensure the steady supply of high-quality seeds and seedlings. Women farmers will receive targeted support through homestead and community gardening programs, and farmer groups will be created to share best practices in sustainable agriculture.

These interventions are expected to enhance food security and nutrition, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve the resilience of local food systems.

Livelihood Recovery and Economic Inclusion

Another pillar of the project focuses on restoring livelihoods for those most affected by the flood crisis. Over 380,000 individuals will benefit from cash-based interventions and economic inclusion programs. These include:

• Temporary employment opportunities.

• Financial aid for business recovery.

• Market-relevant skills training for job readiness.

By improving income opportunities and providing critical support, the project aims to prevent vulnerable populations from falling deeper into poverty.

Disaster Preparedness and Community Resilience

To ensure communities are better equipped to handle future disasters, B-STRONG includes initiatives such as:

• Provision of emergency equipment and boats.

• Community disaster training and simulation drills.

• Capacity building for local authorities.

These efforts will improve local response mechanisms, empower communities to take action, and reduce long-term disaster-related risks.

Strategic Importance and Global Context

Gayle Martin, Interim Country Director for the World Bank in Bangladesh, emphasized the dual development and economic necessity of investing in disaster resilience. “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,” she said.

Swarna Kazi, the project’s Task Team Leader, stressed the multi-sectoral and integrated nature of B-STRONG. “This project addresses both recovery and reconstruction needs as well as long-term disaster resilience… ensuring a holistic approach to recovery and resilience building,” Kazi noted.

Legacy of World Bank Support in Bangladesh

The World Bank has been a long-standing development partner of Bangladesh, playing a key role since the country’s independence. Over the years, the institution has committed over $45 billion in grants and interest-free credits to the nation. In recent times, Bangladesh has emerged as one of the largest recipients of the World Bank’s concessional financing, underscoring its strategic importance in global climate resilience and sustainable development efforts.

The B-STRONG Project exemplifies a bold, forward-thinking response to one of the most pressing challenges facing Bangladesh today. By integrating infrastructure, agriculture, livelihoods, and disaster preparedness, the initiative offers a comprehensive roadmap for post-disaster recovery and long-term resilience. With the World Bank’s continued backing, Bangladesh is poised not only to rebuild but to emerge stronger and more prepared for the climate realities of tomorrow.