Event

On December 4, 2024, on a late autumn afternoon, the Department of Disaster Science and Climate Resilience and the Climate and Disaster Resilience Club had the privilege of hosting a lecture by Professor Dr. Mohammad Shamsudduha, Professor of Water Crisis and Risk Reduction at University College of London (UCL). Professor Shamsudduha is a renowned researcher on water risks to public health, sustainable development and climate resilience. Notably, he is also an alumnus of the Department of Geology at the University of Dhaka.

For many years, scientists have been concerned about declining groundwater levels in some regions. Surprisingly, a shocking trend has emerged: groundwater recharge rates and overall storage have actually increased in some areas over time. This shocking revelation was just one of the many thought-provoking insights shared by Professor Dr. Mohammad Shamsudduha during his lecture on the crucial role of groundwater monitoring in disaster risk reduction.

Key Insights from the Lecture: Professor Dr. Shamsudduha had highlighted the fact that, despite being the largest reservoir of drinking water and a buffer against climate extremes, groundwater is often overlooked in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) frameworks and policies, resulting in a lack of monitoring and insufficient long-term data. He emphasized the importance of monitoring groundwater by drawing attention to its vital roles in the food and water security in many countries, especially Bangladesh. The introduction of shallow water pump for irrigation in the 1980s significantly boosted our food production, particularly rice. Also, it will also help us developing early warning systems and rick maps.

Surprising Trends in Groundwater Research: Research published in The Bengal Water Machine: Quantified Freshwater Capture in Bangladesh, co-authored (First author) by the professor revealed an unexpected increase in groundwater recharge by about 100 mm over the last 40 years especially in the northwestern regions of Bangladesh, despite a decline in groundwater level in some areas. Although the study challenges conventional wisdom, it shows that overall groundwater storage can increase under favorable conditions.

A Call for Action: The Bangladesh Water Development Board has already been monitoring groundwater all over the country. The professor showcased the importance of further research in groundwater monitoring for sustainable water management and enhance climate adaptation.

After the lecture, a lively Q&A and networking session was held where both students and faculties participated. Especially, the networking session attracted students aspiring to pursue higher education and research.

Write-up by- Subha Saiyara Ahmad (11th Batch)