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 dicsucced 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.
As part of addressing the risk of Cyclone Mahasen, Six Community
Radio Stations in coastal region of Bangladesh have broadcasted 514 hours
program for 5 days continuously from May 11 to May16.
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) 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.
The important/significant
activities done by the Community Radio:
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.
2.
The directives from Deputy
Commissioner (DC) and Upa Zila Nirbahi Officer(UNO), interview of experienced
Red Cross officials have been broadcasted.
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.
4.
Interviews [on disaster
preparedness] of local journalists, trained and experienced development
activists were broadcasted. people who took shelter in the center also
talked on community radio so that the others feel inspired to come to the
shelter.
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.
AHM
Bazlur Rahman-S21BR| Chief Executive Officer| Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio
and Communication|ceo@bnnrc.net| 01711881647
