| Sumario: | The coastal area of Bangladesh is situated in the lower floodplain of the Ganges delta and is highly vulnerable to rising sea levels, with an elevation of only about 2-3 meters above mean sea level. In addition to sea level rise, this region is particularly susceptible to cyclones, storm surges, and flooding. The coastal zone accounts for approximately 32% of Bangladesh's net cultivable land and is home to over 40 million people. Around 1.2 million hectares of coastal land are affected by varying levels of salinity.
In this area, the cropping intensity is low—less than 150%—as farmers predominantly cultivate low-yielding traditional rice (Aman) during the monsoon season, leaving large areas uncultivated during the dry season (rabi). Since 2007, the region has experienced several super cyclones, including "Sidr" in 2007, "Aila" in 2009, "Mahasen" in 2013, "Amphan" in 2020, "Mocha" in 2023, and "Remal" in 2024. These environmental vulnerabilities significantly hinder agricultural production, food security, and improvements in livelihoods in the area.
Rising salinity levels during the dry season, high variability in rainfall, drainage issues in the wet season, limited availability of fresh water in the dry season, socio- economic and ecological challenges, and the frequent occurrence of cyclones and storms each year are major challenges for agriculture in coastal regions. To achieve sustainable farming in these areas, innovative solutions and appropriate policy actions are essential.
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