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In Special Consultative Status with the UN Economic & Social Council
Associated with the UN Department of Global Communications

World Radio Day

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) has started advocacy process on observing the world radio day in Bangladesh  on 13 February  in collaboration with public service Broadcasting, Commercial broadcasting & Community Broadcasting at local and national level from 2012.

As a result World Radio Day Observation National Committee was formed to observe the day nationally by Ministry of Information, People’s Republic of Bangladesh.

 

Community Radios in Coastal Bangladesh in addressing Cyclone Mahasen and Comen in line with Disaster Risk Reduction

As part of addressing the risk of Cyclone Mahasen and Comen Six Community Radio Stations in coastal region of Bangladesh have broadcasted 514 hours program for 5 days continuously.

Seven Community Radio Stations operated in coastal region of Bangladesh are now continuously broadcasting

65 hours program​​ to address the upcoming cyclone `komen’ in line with Standing Orders on Disaster (SOD) of Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.
The stations included: Community Radio Nalta 99.2 (Satkhira), Community Radio Sundarban 99.2(Koyra, Khulna), Community Radio Lokobetar 99.2 (Barguna Sadar), Community Rural Radio Krishi Radio 98.8 (Amtali, Barguna), Community Radio Naf 99.2 (Cox’s bazar, Tekhnaf) Community Radio Meghna  99.00 (Charfession, Bhola)  and Radio Sagargiri 99.2 (Sitakunda, Chittagong)

A total of 391 staffs and volunteers and more than 20,000 listeners’ club members were involved constantly in disseminating disaster preparedness message and information to the local community. They updated and informed the cyclone situation at a regular frequency. They have provided information on cyclone shelter to the community according to the disaster situation continuously updated by Meteorological department and other GOB agencies. The Community Radio stations are continuously broadcasting the updates on “Mahsen” by increasing their previous air-time in line with Standing Orders on Disaster of Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.

Broadcasting remained continued even at power failure/load shedding, by using alternative power supply through generator. Since the stormy weather caused power disruption all over, community radio became the only source of information to the local people.

The local community people could be able to know all the details related to cyclone and how to take precautionary measures to address this. This has saved their lives and assets, and again thus proved the essential role of community radio at grassroots level in our coastal region.

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The important/significant activities done by the Community Radio:

  1. 1. The community radio stations broadcasted latest weather bulletin and other govt. directives after every 15-30 minutes. The radio staffs and volunteers produced and broadcasted different types of programs in different formats (like news, magazine, talkshow, discussion etc.) regarding pre, during and post-disaster measures.
  1. 2. The directives from Deputy Commissioner (DC) and Upa Zila Nirbahi Officer(UNO), interview of experienced Red Cross officials have been broadcasted.
  1. 3. Interviews and directives regarding early preparedness measures regarding utilization of Cyclone shelter, crop harvesting and preservation by local elected representatives like UP Chairman, Mayor, Female vice chairman and members of upazila parishads, Deputy Director of Cyclone Preparedness Committee, Agriculture officer and health officer have been broadcasted.
  1. 4. Interviews [on disaster preparedness] of local journalists, trained and experienced development activists werepeople who took shelter in the center also talked on community radio so that the others feel inspired to come to the shelter.
  1. 5. Public Service Announcement (PSA) was broadcasted by quoting bulletin of National Broadcasting Authority. Analysis and views have been broadcasted basing on the news published on national and international mass media, Members of Listeners clubs sent early warning by Mobile messages for non-covered radio region.

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication has been struggling for the last 12 years to open up the community media (including Community Radio, Community Television and Community film) and giving focus on its vital role as voices of the voiceless people. BNNRC has been addressing the community radio & community TV access issue for over a decade, almost since its emergence in the year 2000.

The reality of today is that the bondage between the community people and local-level community radio stations are getting strengthened day-by-day. Community Radio has now become their part of life. Community Radio becomes the instrument for the livelihood battle of the rural people.

BNNRC established the Community Media News Agency (CMNA), Community Media Academy (CMA) and Monthly Community Media to share development news & building capacity for the Community Media sector in Bangladesh.

We have now started advocacy with the Government of Bangladesh to open up Community Television for Development. We hope that, community television will come into being within a short time in Bangladesh. We hope that, community television will come into being within a short time.

World Radio Day 2016

This year, the focus will be “Radio in Emergency and Disaster Situations” and will look into five specific situation

  • Freedom of expression (a disaster or emergency situation shouldn’t be a excuse to curtail freedom of expression)
  • Radio empower survivors and vulnerable people, whose right to privacy is to be respected. This is why UNESCO defends community radios, as they are the voice of vulnerable people.
  • Radio saves lives. Radio prepares people to respond to catastrophes and helps them to rebuild their lives after a disaster.
  • Immediate accessibility of radio frequencies is essential to saving lives. There are emergency frequencies that are reserved for these kind of situations, but are not respected by some radio operators.

World Radio Day 2016: Radio in Times of Emergency and Disaster

Role of Community Radio in Disaster Risk Reduction in Bangladesh

Community Radio Padma 99.2

Community Radio Padma is broadcasting various awareness programmes for people of the town of Rajshahi, by the bay of river Padma. The marginal populace is getting information on their lives and livelihood alongside health, education and society building, and on what they should do to tackle natural calamities.

In between their working hours, they are getting information on their phones that directly impact their lives. Sitting on the sides of their arable land they are getting solutions to agricultural problems, weather updates and advice on how to act during natural disasters. Overall, Radio Padma has created a position of reliability as the voice of marginalized people.

Under the Comprehensive Disaster Management Program, a program on reducing disaster risk and climate adaptation is airing on Radio Padma. The program, titled “Durjog Sochetonota” (“Disaster Awareness”), is airing the frequently-occurring disasters in Rajshahi – draught, thunder and floods.

Producer of the program, Sadi Mohammad said “A disaster is discussed on every episode’s beginning. The kind of disaster, its impact on livestock and trees, things to do before, during and after the disaster are spoken about on the program.”

The 15-20 minute magazine program, airing twice a week at 7:30pm, also broadcasts docudrama to draw attention of listeners. It has been broadcasting regularly on Radio Padma, since August 25.

Imran Ali, 22, is a resident of the town’s Talaimari, by the river, and is a listener of the show. Although he is a college student, he goes with father to fish in the river sometimes. Imran informed that the “Durjog Sochetonota” has been useful for him, as it has taught him to not go out on Padma under heavy clouds, and what to do during floods.

Asma, 27, lives in Bhodra Radio Colony and doesn’t have a radio. But she listens to the program on her mobile phone. Some other listeners also listen to the program with her. She said they have learned what to do at shelters, and information on what to do during thunders. Besides, small and marginal farmers can easily turn on the radio and learn methods of agriculture during draught.

Radio Padma’s station manager Shaheena Parvin said Radio Padma broadcasts mass-awareness programs. To produce the program, employees have received three-day training organized by Bangladesh NGOs network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC), under the Comprehensive Disaster Management Program-2. They have learned about various disasters through it.

Ward Councilor of Ward-21 of Rajshahi town, Nizam Ul Azim said people’s basic right to information has been fulfilled through community radio. Especially marginalized people are availing information on different issues from their homes, through community radio.

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) actively works to improve recognition of the community electronic media sector [Community Radio, Community TV, Community Film] & its work in and involvement with the communities it seeks to serve from 2000.

Community Radio Nalta 99.2

Satkhira district is vulnerable to various natural disasters, including climate change effects. Hundreds of thousands of the district of the Sunderban-surrounding district of the Southwest coastal region fight for survival every day.

To raise awareness among local people, Community Radio Nalta, situated at the Kaligonj upozila of Satkhira is broadcasting a magazine program named “Nirapod Jibon” (Safe Life), under the second phase project of Comprehensive Disaster Management Program (CDMP).

The program, about minimizing disaster risks and climate adaptation has created a stir among listeners. From August 14 last year, the half-hour program is airing on Saturdays through Tuesdays at 4pm, comprising drama skits on awareness, tips on do’s and don’ts during disasters, expert interviews, reports and weather updates.

Information is given on what needs to be done at community level in case of natural calamities. Although everyone is at risk, children, women, elderely and challenged people are at a higher risk – therefore how to rescue them is also discussed on the program.

About the program, Mamun Hossain of Swarabdipur village of Bharashimla union of Kaligonj said “I am a regular listener of Radio Nalta. I listen to almost all of its programs. Of them, I particularly like the program on climate change, because I learn a lot from it — especially about how to protect ourselves and those around us during storms and flash floods.

Salma Khatun of the Paikara village said “I listen to Radio Nalta’s ‘Nirapod Jibon’ program regularly. I get to know about the course of action during and after natural disasters.”

The program’s producer Pratima Rani said “The program focuses on climate change. We also give safety instructions and tips on the program.”

Radio Nalta’s station manager informed that volunteers have received training from Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) on reducing disaster risks and climate adaptation. While this training has made them aware on one hand, on the other hand it has enabled them to aware people of the community.

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) actively works to improve recognition of the community electronic media sector [Community Radio, Community TV, Community Film] & its work in and involvement with the communities it seeks to serve from 2000.

Community Radio Lokobetar 99.2

A small yard in front of a tattered house; Namita Rani weaves a bamboo basket sitting in a corner. Inside the house, several people are surrounding a mobile phone, listening to something in apt attention. Closer inspection reveals they are listening to a program broadcast on Borguna’s community radio Lokobetar. The program is called “Upokuler Jibon” (“Life on the Coast”).

The program has easy-language narratives about effects and risks of climate change, and directives on what to do interspersed between entertaining folk songs.The program’s target is to shed on light about things to do to minimize risks on lives and livelihood of coastal people, through pre-and post-preparation of disasters.

Some of the listeners said their village is called Khajurtola. Although it is close to Borguna town, the only road to it gets covered in thick mud in monsoon, and communication gets difficult. One has to walk a fair bit before they can reach the concrete road.

Unless it’s an emergency, people don’t go to the town. Although some houses have electricity, many poorer households don’t. There’s no television, and no alternative source of entertainment. Their main source of entertainment is Lokobetar, their own radio of their own town.

Among the programs on Lokobetar, “Upokuler Jibon”, awareness-raising magazine program on natural disaster awareness. For the people of the coastal regions who have been struck by Sidr, Aila and Mohasen, it is an important program.

Goutam Chandra of the village says “If you have to survive, you have to know. We had never heard of climate change before. It is through this radio centre that we got to know about it. We hear the world’s temperature is rising, ice is melting and sea water is increasing. If this continues, we will be in grave danger. If it were not for the radio, we would have never known these.”

Most people of the coastal region are farmers or fishermen. Both these occupations are affected heavily by natural disasters. Aware citizens think mass awareness needs to be raised on the matters among people of all parts of society.
Borguna district Fishermen’s Trawler Owner Association chairman Md. Golam Mostafa informed that Lokobetar programs have found popularity among the thousands of fishermen who go out in the rivers and sea to fish. They are being entertained and educated through it.

Lokobetar station manager Monir Hossain Kamal informed all the programs of the station are educational. It is broadcasting programs on child marriage, eve teasing, women’s and children’s rights, and on building awareness on weather and disasters. The program “Upokuler Jibon” that focuses on natural disaster management is assisted by Comprehensive Disaster Management Program (CDMP). It sheds light on disaster preparation and alert signals.

Borguna Deputy Commissioner Mir Zahurul Islam said Lokobetar is playing a vital role in raising awareness among people by airing programs on disasters, weather updates and awareness programs. He further said important government information is also being easily reached to people through Lokobetar.

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) actively works to improve recognition of the community electronic media sector [Community Radio, Community TV, Community Film] & its work in and involvement with the communities it seeks to serve from 2000.

Community Radio Pallikantha 99.2

They had accepted natural disasters as their fate. They did not have an idea that they could tackle disasters and overcome the damages. But magazine program Banbhashi and drama Bhangon, broadcast on community radio Pallikantha, is being their source of courage, and telling them what to do.

The radio station in Moulvibazar is situated at a place where river erosion is a big problem. Every year, river banks wash off somewhere or the other, uprooting people. Radio Pallikantha is pulling those people up.

Magazine program Banbhashi and drama Bhangon are airing since the first week of June last year. Both programs drew listeners’ attention soon. Banbhashi, 20:27 minutes in duration, is being broadcast on Saturdays and Mondays, whileBhangon, 10:57 in duration, is broadcasting on Sunday and Monday.

Radio station sources informed that the programs basically give out information on disaster management – before, during and after the disaster.

Jalal Nuri, a resident of the town’s Bashtola said “We did not have any information on what to do during river erosion. We considered it ill-fate. But after hearing the drama, we know it’s not about fate, rather we are responsible for it. The radio program has given us information on where we can seek help and how we can face it. All of us in the family listen to it, and we enjoy it.”

Another listener, Sagor Ahmed said “Through the program, we have learned that we can play a role in preventing river erosion. We can also do a lot to ease people’s sufferings after the disaster. Such programs should always be airing.”

Sheikh Juliara Tania, producer of magazine program Banbhashi, said “Residents of flood and erosion-prone Moulvibazar can build their capacity in disaster management, by tuning into this program.”

Producer of drama Bhangon, Al Amin said “To make these two programs, radio personnel have received training in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) that will play a positive role in their sustainable capacity building, reducing disaster risk and preventing climate change.”

Radio employee Md. Kamruzzaman said “Through the program,  members of Pallikantha and listeners have gotten a clear idea about what disasters are, things to do in tackling them, disaster management act 2012 and alert signals for sea ports.”

Pallikantha station manager Mehedi Hasan said “Radio Pallikantha stands by Moulvibazar residents in creating awareness to tackle disasters. We are broadcasting the two programs so they can take the right steps in disaster management. I think it has reached out to people, created awareness and the listneres have taken it positively.”

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) actively works to improve recognition of the community electronic media sector [Community Radio, Community TV, Community Film] & its work in and involvement with the communities it seeks to serve from 2000.

Community Radio Sagar Giri 99.2

The tempestuous Swandip island channel in the West, the beautiful Chandranath mountain in the East, and in the middle is the Dhaka-Chittagong highway and rail line. Combining them all, Sitakunda upozila’s community radio Sagar Giri is named.

The community radio’s target is to improve the lives of the rural populace and raising awareness on practical matters, and to avail information services to people and thereby alleviating povery and ensuring sustainable development.

Coastal and hilly people have to suffer from some natural disaster or the other every year. Especially those who live in the hills and the fishermen are always at risk. Therefore, Radio Sagar Giri, from its very beginning has been making people aware on fighting disasters and minimizing damage.

Apart from everyday weather updates, various awareness-raising dramas, skits and magazine programs are raising awareness among the coastal people.

Among the disaster-awareness programs, Radio Sagar Giri’s magazine program “Ashun Hoi Socheton” (“Let’s be Aware”) is noteworthy. Since last July, it has been airing on Wednesdays and Fridays at 6:30pm.

The magazine program is being broadcast with assistance from Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) and Comprehensive Disaster Management Program (CDMP). Its other target is to make Radio Sagar Giri workers more aware on disaster risk minimization and adverse effects of climate change, so they can inform the people fo the community about it. Producing radio programs and develoing technical skills is also a goal of the program.

To achieve the goal, two volunteers of Radio Sagar Giri have been given three-day training, following which they have produced programs and dramas on various disaster issues.

Haripad Jaladas of the Guliakhali fishermen’s village in Muradpur Union no. 4 of Sitakunda Upozila said “We take the radio with us when we go fishing, because Radio Sagar Giri broadcasts weather updates and disaster-awareness programs. I first came to know of cyclone Hudhud through Radio Sagar Giri. I didn’t even know about the alert signals. Now I do.”

Rehena Akhter of Syedpur Union says “I listen to Radio Sagar Giri programs every day. I like the awareness-building dramas, magazine programs and songs. But I like the disaster-based programs best, because I learn a lot from them, which are very important for coastal residents. Since we don’t have electricity in our area, we did not get any news. Now, thanks to Radio Sagar Giri, we get weather news besides other news as well.”

Rabi Tripura of the Adibasi Palli in Kumira Union said “Previously, our area suffered from hill-slides, but now we get to know about it from radio programs, and can take necessary steps to prevent it.”

Radio Sagar Giri station manager Shah Sultan Shamim said “Every year, natural disasters strike Sitakunda, Mirsarai and Sandwip – the broadcast areas of Radio Sagar Giri. So, to give people assurance in disasters we make various programs, and listenrers also react positively.”

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) actively works to improve recognition of the community electronic media sector [Community Radio, Community TV, Community Film] & its work in and involvement with the communities it seeks to serve from 2000.

Community Radio Mahananda 99.2

Chapainawabgonj’s only community Radio Mahananda is working for disaster risk minimization and climate adaptation, under the Comprehensive Disaster Management Program. Boradcast on 98.8MHz, radio Mahananda’s disaster-related programs are creating mass awareness. People of the district are getting the courage to stand up from the losses of river erosion and the risks that loom ahead.

Since September 1, Radio Mahananda is broadcasting drama skits on how to do in case of river erosion, floods and norwester storms. They are broadcast at 3:45pm, 5:30pm, 6pm and 8pm. The magazine program is 17 minutes in duration, the to-do during floods is 19 minutes and the norwester storm drama is 25 minutes. Through the program, information is given on what to do to solve the problems created by floods, river erosion and storms, along with alert system and preparational activities.

As per geographical nature, Chapainawabgonj district is divided into Barendra zone, Diar zone and Char zone. River erosion, floods, norwester storms and draught are the major natural problems of the area. River Padma flows into Bangladesh through the border area of Shibgonj. The Indian part of the river saw mass erosion after the Farakka barrage was ereceted on the Bangladesh entry point of Padma. When a dam was erected to prevent that erosion, the water’s natural flow changed, hitting the left banks of the Bangladesh part of the river. As a result, massive erosion began in 1994-95 on the district sadar and Shibgonj. The erosion washed away homes, arable lands, orchards, mosques, schools and colleges of hundreds of thousands people of Shibgonj upozila’s Paka, Ujirpur, Durlabhpur (partial), Chatrajitpur (partial) and district sadar’s Narayanpur, Charbagdanga,

Alatuli, Shahjahanpur and Sundarpur unions. Countless people became pennyless, and the map of the area changed. However, although Padma takes a terrifying look in the monsoon, the dry season shows it in different light. Although a 25-kilometer Bamti has been preserved to prevent erosion, it still continues in Durlabhpur, Alatuli and Charbagdanga. Radio Mahananda’s programs awareness programs have had a positive impact under sich circumstances.

Radio Mahananda’s station manager Aleya Ferdous informed that the listeners have responded very positively to the programs made under Comprehensive Disaster Management Program. Information is given on what to do to solve the problems created by floods, river erosion and storms. People are being aware through it, and building capacity to tackle disasters in a combined effort.

Program producer Samia Akhter said “I received training to make these programs. While I have myself gathered knowledge about natural disasters, it’s also helping me in producing the programs.”

Mentioning that listeners listen to it regularly, she said audiences regularly send letters and SMS, and want similar programs to continue airing on Radio Mahananda.

Enamul Haq from Char Paka of Paka Union in Shibgonj upozila, who has been repeatedly affected by river erosion, said “Nearly two decades of erosion has left people hapless. It is the worst suffering for us. We did not have any idea on tackling disasters. But now, thanks to Radio Mahananda, people of the area are much more aware.

Shoaib Ahmed Selim of Pirashon village in Rahanpur municipality of Gomostapur upozila said “Through the progam, I have learnt about river erosion areas of the district, how floods occur and make people homeless. I have also learned how to save myself from the disaster.”

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) actively works to improve recognition of the community electronic media sector [Community Radio, Community TV, Community Film] & its work in and involvement with the communities it seeks to serve from 2000.

Community Radio  Mukti 99.2

 Community radio Mukti is providing counseling support to disaster-prone people of Bogra. The program titled “Durjoge Amra” (“Us at Disasters”) that airs at 7m on Saturdays and Tuesdays, ahs created a stir in the community.

Pre-flood measures, alertness, keeping family members safe, minizming agricultural riska, health preventing river erosion and minimizing damage are issues discussed on the show.

Radio Mukti began broadcasting in Bogra as a community radio on December 31, 2011. Although there problems at the start due to shortage of experienced producers, the situation has improved recently.

Radio Mukti broadcasts for the people of grassroots level. Agriculture, child entertainment, sports, news, cultural rograms with local artistes, health, programs with various groups of the community, women empowerment, education, special days, government programs, notifications and programs on public interests are broadcasted by it.

Of them, their disaster management program “Durjoge Amra” is becoming popular among those living on the river banks. With assistance from Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) and financial support of Comprehensive Disaster Management Program (CDMP), the program is broadcast in two parts. A 23-minute magazine program on river erosion is aired at 7pm on Saturdays, while a magazine program on floods is aired at the same timing on Tuesday. Drama skits are incorporated to generate interest of people.

The program aims to raise awareness among local people about disasters – especially floods and river erosion. Producer Ariful Islam and station in-charge Jinia Islam are working on the program. They have taken training for it. They are being assisted by 7-8 volunteers who have basic training.

Lecturer of Bogra’s Sariakandi Ganakpara Degree College, Alamgir Kabir said “I have heard the ‘Durjoge Amra’ program. It is playing a positive role in raising awareness among people living on river banks. Due to technological advancement every household has cell phones, the programs and news is reaching people promptly.” He also urged for increasing radio coverage, to make more people aware of it.

Resident of Bogra’s Thonthonia, Khorshed Alam said “I listen to the songs on Radio Mukti. But I like the river erosion and flood-related program more. Because it brings up what we need to do in adverse situations.”

Producer and station in-charge Jinia said “Matters like what to do to prevent erosion, collecting phone numbers to inform authorities in case of erosion, how to contact them, where to build houses safely, and emergency medicine are discussed on the show. Besides, flood-resistant paddy cultivation, making saline, stockpiling dry food and to-do for women and children are also broadcast in easy language.”

She informed that the program began broadcasting from August 28. They have received trainings for it, and have trained others. She however opined in favor of further disaster trainings.

Program producer Ariful Islam said Radio Mukti has been broadcasting various awareness-based programs on agriculture, health, education, women’s development and cultural programs – since its inception. He said “We are hopeful about ‘Durjoge Amra”, because it is useful for people. We regularly get phone calls, SMS and letters. They express their interest about it.”

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) actively works to improve recognition of the community electronic media sector [Community Radio, Community TV, Community Film] & its work in and involvement with the communities it seeks to serve from 2000.

Community Radio Chilmari 99.2

Endless water is everywhere. The only way to move is through banana-tree rafts or boats. Water has entered inside the house; there’s acute shortage of drinking water. Shahzadi, a housewife of the remote char region of Bajradia in Kurigram’s Chilmari upozila, doesn’t know what to do.

At 4:15pm, a magazine program begins on Radio Chilmari, on what to do before, during and after a disaster. She hears what she needs to do during floods, and begins work on the advice. Shahzadi then tells others about the program, who also fight against natural calamities. Kurigram is a flood-affected district of the north. Surrounded by Brahmaputra, people of Chilmari, Roumari, Rajibpur and Ulipur become victims of floods every year. Last August, 22 days of flood damaged crops across 39,000 hectares. That is why Radio Chilmari is broadcasting the program for the flood victims.

The program is broadcast under technical and financial assistance from Comprehensive Disaster Management Program (CDMP), and is assisted by Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC).  From May 3-5 last year, BNNRC organised a workshop for community radio employees, where two volunteers from Radio Chilmari participated and learned about making programs on disaster.

Program producer Krishna Amal said “the program-making workshop was very helpful. We got to know about different kinds of disasters like erosion, flood and draught. During this year’s flood, we could give a lot of information. And the programs have raised great awareness among people,” he informed. Other producer Mamunur Rashid echoed his statement.

Radio Chilmari is regularly broadcasting pre-flood to-do magazine program “Durjoge Durbhog”, docudrama “Cheton” and river erosion-based magazine program “Bhanga Gora”. Various informations are given on the three programs, while spots, jingles and public service announcements are also made.

During floods, Radio Chilmari in its three-hour session broadcasts the magazine programs under CDMP on what to do during disasters for two hours. Special health bulletins by expert doctors are also broadcast everyday, as is information about high places, barrages and medical team’s positions. Advice is also given on how to keep children, pregnant women and the elderly. Where to find clean water, how to purify water and how to get rid of insects are also tipped.

Post-flood treatment of pregnant women and of waterborne diseases like diarrhea, cholera, jaundice, typhoid and skin rash are given by expert doctors. Immunization of livestock, cleanup of household are also adviced on the program. Animal Resources officer of the upozila Dr. Md. Habibur Rahman said the advice on vaccinating domestic animals have made many aware.

Chilmari upozila Chairman Shawkat Ali Sarkar (Bir Bikrom) thanked Radio Chilmari and said “Radio chilmari has given correct information to people, thus preventing loss of lives and assets.”

Chilmari Union Parishad Chairman Md. Jahangir Alam, Noyarhat Union Parishad Chairman Md. Ataur Rahman, along with UP chairmen of other areas also thanked Radio Chilmari for their role during floods.

Achiron (40), Nur Fatema (43) of Ramna model union, Kodbhanu (38) of Dokkhin Khauria’r char from Noyarhat, Razzak (45) of Fechuka’r char, Morzina (55) of Char Boilomondiarkhata and Shefali (38) of Shakhahatir char all said they used to drink river water during flood, which caused diarrhea. But this year, they had learned about dangers of drinking river water and ways to purify water.

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) actively works to improve recognition of the community electronic media sector [Community Radio, Community TV, Community Film] & its work in and involvement with the communities it seeks to serve from 2000.

Community Radio Jhenuk 99.2

Community Radio Jhinuk is raising disaster awareness among people of Jhenaidah, through their informative program “Jante Chai, Shikhte Chai” (“We Want to Know, We Want to Learn”). The program, broadcast twice a week, has become popular among people of the town and rural areas alike.

The program began airing from May 25 last year. It goes on air every Sunday and Wednesday, at 3pm.

The program focuses on awareness about norwester storms, tornadoes, fire prevention and arsenic poisoning. Through it, Jhenaidah residents know when and how norwesters strike, what to do in such cases, reasons for thunder and lightning, where to stay safe during them and the importance of planting trees to prevent norwesters and tornadoes.

Moreover, tips are given on how to be safe from fires, how to control fires, who to notify, how to help fire service, first aid in case of fire burn etc. Advice is also given to receive medical help in case of burn.

Information is also given on arsenic. How arsenic harms people and animals, what are the symptoms of poisoning, treatment, safe arsenic levels of water and prevention of arsenic poisoning are discussed.

Radio Jhinuk listener, farmer Proshanto Mandal of Jalhar village in Kaligonj upozila said “I like all the programs of Radio Jhinuk. But the one on Sundays and Wednesdays about isaster, I listen to most regularly. Through that, I have learned how to keep myself safe3 from norwester storms, tornadoes and lightning. Many others listen to it, like me.”

Businessman of Kotchadpur upozila, Sheikh Jaglul Haq Dablu said “From the Radio Jhinuk program I have learned how to prevent house fires. Previously, I didn’t know any way to save myself. Now I do.”

Monir Hossain Munna, a student from Arappur, said “Radio Jhinuk has had quite an impact on young listeners. People in every house are listening to radio on their phones. Radio Jhinuk’s ‘Jante Chai, Shikhte Chai’ is an incomparable program.”

Radio Jhinuk’s station manager Parveen Nahar said about the program, “The program is being made under Comprehensive Disaster Management Program (CDMP). The major disasters in Jhenaidah are norwester storms, tornadoes, lightning, cold waves, fires and arsenic poisoning, so these are focused on and listeners are given information on them.”

Producer of the program Masuduzzaman said “Our connections with people of all corners of the district have improved as we worked with disaster management. People have also had the scope to learn about disasters.”

He further said “Hurricanes or cclones do not affect Jhenaidah. But norwester storms, tornadoes, lightning, cold waves, fires and arsenic poisoning do happen. The informative program ‘Jante Chai, Shikhte Chai’ has helped people tackle these disasters.”

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) actively works to improve recognition of the community electronic media sector [Community Radio, Community TV, Community Film] & its work in and involvement with the communities it seeks to serve from 2000.

Community Rural Krishi Radio 98.8

A day when there was no electricity anywhere in Borguna from 5pm-10pm. People were anxious of a tsunami caused by earthquake. When the usual radio-TV bulletins could not reach them due to the blackout, many people’s only hope was community radio station Krishi Radio.

Krishi Radio continued their broadcast after the scheduled 3-5pm, using a generator. They broadcasted latest updates at regular intervals, which reached people through their phones and radio sets, and assured many. Local and national media also later reported on Krishi Betar’s role in the disaster.

Through providing information, suggestions and raising awareness, Krishi Radio has already found a place in the hearts of the people of Borguna district’s Amtoli, Taltoli, Betagi, a part of Borguna sadar, Potuakhali’s Kolapara, Golachipa, Doshmina, Rangaboli and Mirzagonj.

With focus on disaster risk minimization and climate adaptation, Krishi Radio has been broadcasting a weekly magazine program “Durjoge Amra” (“Us at Disasters”) every Monday at 4:30pm since June 2012. The program has been made more time-befitting with the help of Comprehensive Disaster Management Project (CDMP) recently

Producer of “Durjoge Amra” Shamim Mridha said the radio’s CRR correspondent Shahnaz Begum has received three-day training to build capacity in making programs on disaster risk minimization and climate adaptation. A 10-minute docudrama and a 11-minute magazine program made by a team led by her, has been sent to CDMP.

Regular listeners of “Durjoge Amra” AMtoli Union’s Shamim from Lochapara village and Kamal from Nachnapara village said the program has raised awareness among general people. Listneres also exchange information via mobile phone during or after the show.

Mojibor Rahman, a freedom fighter from Sonakhali and Rasel, a youth from Gazipur – said informative discussions on disaster, climate change and adaptation are proving useful. People of the villages were left in the dark about it. But now almost everybody has the essential information. They also demanded for broadcasting more informative programs rather than entertainment programs.

Krishi Radio’s station manager AFM Shahabuddin informed – 10 employees of the Department of Agriculture are constantly working at Krishi Radio. It has also trained some 60 volunteers by sending them to trainings by BNNRC.  Keeping disaster and climate risks in mind, Krishi Radio’s broadcast area are being expanded from 17 kilometers to 30 kilometers. Bangladesh Betar has already completed the necessary survey.

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) actively works to improve recognition of the community electronic media sector [Community Radio, Community TV, Community Film] & its work in and involvement with the communities it seeks to serve from 2000.

Community Radio Sundarban 98.8

Khulna’s Koyra is a coastal region, where three hundred thousand people have to struggle against disasters.

People of the area had accepted natural disasters as their fate. They had no idea the losses incurred in disasters could be recovered. But they do now. They know what to do and how to overcome losses. Radio Sunderban is giving them the encouragement.

Community Radio Sunderban, situated in Koyra is regularly airing a program named “Harano Kotha” that has become popular.

Storms, flash floods and river erosion are everyday matters for people here. Riverbanks give in every year and inundate some area or the other. Community Radio Sunderban is getting those people on their feet.

Magazine program “Harano Kotha” is being aired since April 22, at 9pm every Saturday on 98.8FM.

Radio station sources said the program gives out information on disaster management, especially what to do during and after disasters.

Zakir Hossain of the Bedkashi village of the upozila said about “Harano Kotha”: “We did not know what to do and what things to keep at our disposal during disasters. But through this program, we are learning these things.”

Maloti Rani from Baliadanga village echoed the thoughts. “Through the program I have learned what to stock at home when there’s a chance of disaster striking. I have also learned what to do during alert signals 1 and 2, and when to go seek refuge at cyclone shelters if there is a danger signal.

Program producer GM Rabiul Islam said people of the community within the broadcast reach of the radio have become aware with the help of “Harano Kotha”, the program on natural disaster.

Station Manager Palash Kanti said “The program, assisted by Comprehensive Disaster Management Project (CDMP) and Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC), aims to aware people on disaster preparation, disaster-time services, and things to do for rehabilitation. It has particularly succeeded in raising disaster awareness among people. I think people are benefiting from it. If more such programs are broadcast people’s disaster management capacity will increase.”

Other associated with the program said their workers have been trained by CDMP and BNNRC, which has enlightened them about natural disasters and enabled them to make such a program. They made demands to continue such capacity-building trainings.

Local UP chairman Sardar Motiar Rahman said people are being benefitted from the program. If more such programs are broadcast, people will be more apt in tackling disasters in future, he said.

Upozila Disaster Management Committee Chairman and also Upozila chairman Maolana AKM Tamiz Uddin said Radio Sunderban is playing a special role in raising awareness among general people of the disaster-stricken Koyra area.

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) actively works to improve recognition of the community electronic media sector [Community Radio, Community TV, Community Film] & its work in and involvement with the communities it seeks to serve from 2000.

Community Radio Naf 99.2

Community Radio Naf is raising awareness among people about disasters. Particularly, the weekly informative program “Janiyore Nijore Bachai” (“Know to Save Yourself”) has become popular among people of the coast.

The program is being broadcast every Sunday at 5:30pm since May 25. The hour-long program features climate change, minimizing damage through combined efforts to minimize damage in disasters, disaster forecast, cautionary signals, and do’s and don’t before, during and after disasters.

It also has interviews of authoritative figures of government and private sector, awareness-raising and folk songs. It is being produced by personnel trained in coordinated disaster management, risk minimization and climate adaptation.

Radio Naf producer Harun Rashid began work after his three day training on Strengthening Capacity of the Community Radio Broadcasters in Disaster Risk reduction and Climate Change adaptation. Comprehensive Disaster Management Project (CDMP) organized the training.

Harun Rashid said “People of teknaf now wait to listen to this program. It’s a live program, so listeners’ questions must also be answered.” He however admitted that more training is necessary.

Office incharge of Teknaf Red Crescent Cyclone Preparation Program (CPP), Abdul Matin said Radio Naf’s disaster-related program has been helpful in raising awareness among people. “Our field workers are regular listeners of it. CPP activists get a lot of latest information from the program.”

Teknaf Mary Stopes Clinic manager Bhismadeb Roy said the program is also helping educated populace with various information, aside from the general populace.

Woman leader of Teknaf Old Pollanpara Kulsuma Begum said women play a big role in disaster management and climate change, so the program should give more information on what women should do.

Fisherman Lalu of Maheshkhali Para said the program is helpful to those who go to the sea for fishing. But boatmen far from the coast can’t hear it since Radio Naf’s frequency doesn’t cover beyond Saint Martin’s.

Upozila fisheries officer Humayun Murshed said Radio Naf has taken a groundbreaking step to raise awareness among people of Teknaf. Listeners wait eagerly to listen to the program.

Station manager of Naf Radio, Aminul Islam Humayun said the program is running to increase awareness of coastal people about climate change effects and to build capacity is disaster management and reducing risk, with help from CDMP (Second Phase).

He further said Radio Naf had also previously alerted people by broadcasting forecast of cyclones Mohasen and Hudhud.

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) actively works to improve recognition of the community electronic media sector [Community Radio, Community TV, Community Film] & its work in and involvement with the communities it seeks to serve from 2000.

Community Radio Bikrampur 99.2

The vast areas of Munshigonj have been affected by the erosion of the river Padma. While the erosion is getting worse on one hand, people’s woes make the air heavy on the other. People are losing their homes, and nature – its balance.

Even last year, many houses have broken down into the erosion of the upozila’s Baghbari, Haiyarpar and Mulchor areas. Large areas of Hasail, Kamarkhara, Dighirpar and Pachgaon are at grave risk.

In such circumstances, Community Radio Bikrampur is working to make of this erosion-prone area aware about disasters. The informative weekly programs on what to do during erosion and natural disasters – “Nodi’r Par’er Manush” (“People of the riverbanks), “Kalboishakhi” and docudrama “Tornado” has already created a stir among people.

The programs focus on damage control of river erosion and coordinated efforts to prevent it, disaster forecast – and things to do before, during and after disasters.

People working at the radio have already been trained in this regard by Comprehensive Disaster Management Program (CDMP) and BNNRC.

Radio Bikrampur listener Md. Sobuj Hossain (21) of the Mollar Char village of Munshigonj, said: “We have become aware by listening to ‘Nodi’r Par’er Manush’, and people of the community have taken initiatives to erect a dam on the river bank.” He also said more such programs should be aired.

Councilor of Ward no.7 of Uttar Islampur, Nargis Akhter said “After listening to the program, we thought of moving our home from the river bank. We have also advised others as such.

About the program “Kalboishakhi”, Zahura Begum of char village said “We did not know what to do during Norwester storms. Through Radio Bikrampur, now we do.”

Producer of the program Tapas Lal Chowdhury said “Every program gives clear idea about a certain topic. People are being aware through it. People of the riverside have learned about dams. They have also learned about rehabilitation, and how to claim space from the land office.”

Munshigonj land office surveyor Nure Alam said “After the programs were broadcast on Radio Bikrampur, we have scrutinized and selected 48 land-less people some ‘khas’ land, where they have erected houses and are living there.”

Radio Bikrampur station manager Harun-ar Rashid said “The programs have poplar with listeners from the beginning. Many people didn’t know what to do or where to go for help in disasters. Now they are getting to know all that through Radio Bikrampur.

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) actively works to improve recognition of the community electronic media sector [Community Radio, Community TV, Community Film] & its work in and involvement with the communities it seeks to serve from 2000.

Community Borendro Radio 99.2

“Ela Onustan Beshi-I Howa Dorkar Ache” (“There should be more of such programs”)

Like many other districts, natural disasters like floods and severe droughts hit Naogaon, bringing sufferings to people’s lives.

Although it is not possible to avert all losses by a disaster, people’s lives and properties can be saved to a great extent through preparation and post-disaster steps – and Naogaon’s Community Radio Barendra Radio began three programs on disaster risk minimization and climate adaptation — keeping that in mind. The programs have raised awareness among people and they know what they need to know.

Since August 15, three special programs are being broadcast six days a week. They are: drought-related magazine program “Tepantorer Matth”, flood-related magazine program “Esho Jani” and flood-awareness docudrama “Sochetonotaye Mukti”. All of them are efforts to inform people of the community.

Producer of the programs Jasia Nasrin said they began broadcasting these programs, keeping in mind the kind of natural disasters that the nearby districts. She said “Our district is often hit by droughts. So we give information on which are the most drought-susceptible areas and what crops can be planted there. Plus, where there is no scope to cultivate rice, we are giving suggestions to cultivate alternate irrigation crops like wheat, and mango orchards.”

A lot of awareness has been raised among the listeners through the programs, she said.

Barendra Radio listeners have also said they are being helped by the programs. Manik, a tea vendor of the Ukilpara, said “There was flood in our area this year. I heard people talk about the flood on the radio. I listened to it, and made my wife listen to it too. Then, we wrapped up what we were asked to to, and we did not have to face any trouble. There should be more of such programs. We want them round the year.”

Housewife Asha Begum of the Doptori Para said “When the river water was flowing over the danger line in the town’s Chhoto Jamuna, we began listening to the radio program on floods. We did not know what would happen if the dam gave away and flooded us – and that is why we listened to the radio.”

Liton Mandal, a farmer of Arji Naogaon, said “We have drought here during the monsoon, and cause problem in our farming. But through the radio program I learned what other crop I can plant. I have taken others’ advice too, but I heard it first on radio.”

Barendra Radio’s station manager Subrata Sarkar said “Jasia Nasrin and Mostafizur Rahman Golap, two of their team members have gone to Dhaka to receive training on on making the programs, assisted by Comprehensive Disaster Management Project (CDMP) Phase 2 and Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC). The programs have been made with suggestion from officials of the related departments, journalists and experienced people. We are getting great response after the broadcast.”

Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) actively works to improve recognition of the community electronic media sector [Community Radio, Community TV, Community Film] & its work in and involvement with the communities it seeks to serve from 2000.

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