From news reports it is evident that both the number of lightning strikes and deaths from those are increasing in the country during the pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons. Earlier, storms and floods were the primary concerns as disasters. Now, lightning has been added to the list. This disaster is increasing at an alarming rate. What is the reason for this sudden increase in lightning?
According to an estimate, on an average 300 people are killed by lightning in Bangladesh every year. Cumilla, Noakhali, Jashore, Kushtia, Mymensingh, Sylhet, and Dhaka divisions were earlier prone to thunderstorms. Now, there is lightning all over the country. And if it rains during this time, lightning is certain. So, people should be careful.
Deaths due to lightning are increasing in Bangladesh due to the felling of trees, especially tall trees in open fields, a lack of preventive measures, and a lack of awareness. According to Vaisala, Finland's lightning research organisation, 70 per cent of those who die in Bangladesh due to lightning are farmers or those who work in open fields. Additionally, 14 per cent were killed by lightning on the way home, and 13 per cent while bathing and fishing. The Disaster Forum says early warning and weather forecasts are very important to avoid lightning-related deaths in Bangladesh.
The reality is that death by lightning can be avoided-a fact that many people do not believe. But the danger of lightning can be predicted in advance, and the forecast is very similar. Scientists have developed an index called the 'wet component of atmospheric refractivity (WAR)' to measure where there is a risk of lightning. A machine has been installed in West Bengal, India under contract with a US company. Although unable to control the thunder, the instrument reports the lightning strike 45 minutes in advance. So, the people of the concerned area can be warned.
The Andhra Pradesh government in India has reduced the number of deaths due to lightning by installing modern sensors. With the help of advanced technology, they send SMS alerts through set-top boxes on television about possible lightning. Such initiatives can be taken in our country as well. The Directorate of Disaster Management says they have planned to install lightning arresters, but the Planning Commission has not passed it yet, and there is no survey on how many places to put them. It is quite difficult.
The government has also taken an initiative to install lightning protection bars in the Haor area, but when that initiative will be implemented is a question. Earlier an initiative was taken to plant 1.3 million palm trees nationwide. It is possible to deal with this disaster only through strong commitment to implement the projects without delay.
Ashikujaman Syed
Marketing Research Associate
Hebei Huanji Metal Wire Mesh Co. Ltd
Shijiazhuang, China.
[email protected]
