Integrated approach to assess vulnerability of the Coastal Region of Bangladesh due to climate change

Abstract

The coastal zone of Bangladesh is characterized by an evolving flat delta subject to very high tides and frequent cyclones coming from the Bay of Belgal. People in coastal region in Bangladesh are under threat to climate change and are becoming vulnerable, leading to relatively higher poverty than the other parts of the country. Potential impacts oh seal-level rise in coastal zone include shoreline erosion, saltwater intrusion, inundation of wetlands and estuaries threats to cultural and historic resources along with infrastructures. The primary objective of this research is to simulate and calculate a Population Vulnerability Index (PVI) Model of the coastal zone of Bangladesh to assess the coastal exposure and vulnerability due to natural calamities. Another objective is to valuate model sensibility to different scenarios of inundation and change and natural habitats. Seven geophysical and climatic parameters i.e., relief, wind speed, wave exposure, surge height, tidal water depth, population density and natural habitats has been considered to simulated the model.