Cyclone Remal: Examining Risk Layering and Cost Effectiveness through Start Ready, Start Fund Anticipation, and Start Fund Response

Bangladesh’s coastal communities regularly face extreme weather, and Cyclone Remal in 2024 was a stark reminder of these ongoing challenges. The cyclone hit districts like Khulna and Satkhira, causing severe damage to homes, livelihoods, and key infrastructure. In response, Start Fund Bangladesh activated three key mechanisms: Start Ready (SR), Start Fund Anticipatory Alerts (SF AA), and Start Fund Rapid Response (SF RR). These interventions helped reduce losses, protect lives, and support early recovery efforts.

By repairing key embankments ahead of the storm, the Start Ready mechanism prevented widespread devastation, protecting:

• 2,177 Acres of Fish Farms → $5.4 Million in fisheries assets preserved
• 1,052 Homes → $0.18 Million in avoided repair costs
• 942 Families' Livelihoods → $0.28 Million in secured income

Only $902 invested prevented $5.86 Million in losses.

This study highlights the effectiveness of early interventions over reactive disaster relief. Investing in preparedness, risk assessment, and financial support before disasters strike significantly reduces long-term losses. Improving coordination between Start Ready, Start Fund Anticipatory Alerts, and Start Fund Rapid Response can further enhance the efficiency of disaster response efforts, ensuring that vulnerable communities receive timely and impactful assistance.