Adapting To Climate Change: Migration, Vulnerability And Livelihoods In The Bengal Delta- The Search For Effective Policy Options

This study examines how climate change shapes migration and livelihoods in the Bengal Delta, with a particular focus on Cyclone Aila. The disaster causes households to experience trauma, displacement, hunger, physical and financial loss, health hazards, mental pressures, etc., which are exacerbated, especially where women, children, and old people are present. This increases vulnerability and places a disproportionate burden on women in managing recovery. Using surveys and case studies, the report explores migration as a coping strategy and evaluates the effectiveness of current policy frameworks. While the National Social Security Strategy (NSSS) includes relevant measures, its implementation remains weak. The findings point to practical needs, including gender-sensitive disaster shelters, stronger embankment management, and better responses to saline water intrusion.