Impacts of Climate Change on the Livelihoods of The People in Tanguar Haor, Bangladesh

M. M Rahaman

doi:10.3759/jowrem.v3i1.1814

Abstract

Bangladesh is widely recognized as one of the most vulnerable countries in the world due to climate change. Previous studies reveal that Surma-Kushiyara rivers system known as Haor basin is projected to be under additional stress due to changes in temperature and rainfall pattern. Tanguar Haor, which is located in the north-eastern region of Bangladesh, is characterized by large round shaped floodplain depressions and marshy lands. This paper attempts to analyze the various climatic vulnerabilities with main concentration on climate change impacts on the livelihoods of Tanguar Haor people. Primary data has been collected through field level questionnaire survey and from various government and non-governmental agencies. Secondary data has been obtained from peer-reviewed articles, books, research documents and databases. The findings suggest that the rainfall of Tanguar Haor is decreasing that affects the crops production and fisheries. It also reveals that the average temperature is increasing; consequently, drought is frequent in this area that negatively affects the crops production in Tanguar Haor area. As a result, the livelihoods of local people are hampered. It is suggested that in line with target 13.1 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, proper steps should be taken to strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in Tanguar Haor area.