Development Review
Vol 34, Issue 1, 2025
Health and Wellbeing Infrastructure, Socioeconomic Factors, and Disaster Resilience: Evidence from Cyclone Remal, Bangladesh
Author(s) : K M Ali Reza
Abstract :
This research examines the multifaceted factors influencing disaster vulnerability and resilience in coastal districts of Bangladesh, using Cyclone Remal (May 2024) as a case study. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study identifies key determinants of disaster impact, including socioeconomic vulnerabilities, health and wellbeing infrastructure, physical infrastructure, and community mobilization. The findings show that districts with higher poverty rates, limited healthcare access, inadequate cyclone shelters and road infrastructure suffered greater damage. The role of volunteers and embankments also emerged as critical in enhancing resilience. By integrating statistical analysis with qualitative insights, the study contributes to the theoretical and empirical understanding of disaster risk reduction and resilience-building. The research offers policy recommendations aimed at reducing vulnerabilities and strengthening disaster preparedness through targeted investments in both health and physical infrastructure.
Keywords : Cyclone Remal, Disaster resilience, Health infrastructure, Socioeconomic vulnerability, Bangladesh, Disaster preparedness