P rofessor Patrick V. Verkooijen, CEO of the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA), visited Chattogram in June 2024 to listen and learn from local communities who are leading in the preparation of People’s Adaptation Plans, aimed at improving climate resilience in the city’s informal settlements. The visit underscores the GCA’s commitment to supporting local leadership by vulnerable populations in their fight against climate change, and linking their priorities for resilience building to investments by international financial institutions.

During his visit, Professor Verkooijen met with residents of Nobab Khan Colony and Razakhali Beribadh Colony, two informal settlements severely impacted by water scarcity, flooding, heat and an increasing burden of disease caused by water salinity and contamination and a rise in vector populations. The two settlements are among 25 low-income communities in Chattogram championing People’s Adaptation Plans to inform investments made under the World Bank-supported Chattogram Water Supply Improvement Project (CWSIP).

Speaking to media present during the visit, Professor Verkooijen said: “The resilience and strength of the communities in Chattogram are truly inspiring. Through the development of People’s Adaptation Plans, we aim to ensure that international financial institutions effectively address the needs of the most vulnerable populations. Climate action at a global level makes no sense unless it helps protect people on the frontlines of climate change.”