Lessons from Bangladesh Garment Factory Collapse

Posted on by 施達基金會

[ePrayer – Remember the incident of factory collapse in Bangladesh]

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Bangladesh must strengthen its urban search and rescue capacity, said experts, following the collapse of an eight-story factory building outside Dhaka which has caused over 400 dead. There is a criticism of the authorities’ overall handling of the operation, and the Bangladeshi government’s rejection of international search and rescue offers. More than 2,000 volunteers and local rescue teams rushed to the scene to assist. However, they soon found themselves overwhelmed and ill-equipped. There were no scanners, sniffer dog or even no protective gear (gloves and helmets) for volunteers. Besides, the overall coordination of the operation was criticised. Densely populated Dhaka is indeed at high risk of an earthquake. The incident has revealed the fact that the country is not prepared for a major earthquake. [IRIN]

Remember the incident of factory collapse in Bangladesh:

  • Pray for the victims and their families. May God’s comfort and healing be with them;
  • Pray that the government officials can learn from the lessons and make effective measures to prevent the similar tragedies and respond to the possible disasters in the future.

Bangladesh SATHI Slum Community Development Project

Posted on by 施達基金會

SATHI conducts the project in a slum area at the outer skirts of Dhaka. There are 7000 families in the area who came from different parts of the country with different cultures and religions, mostly Islamic and Hindu. There is no homogeneity among the residents who do not have any sense to improve their community in concert.  Other social problems like child labors, lack of sanitation, bullying & harassment, alcoholic and drug abuses and gambling are not uncommon in the area.

The project aims at emphasizing people’s ownership, community development and sustainability. CEDAR works with SATHI to encourage 1500 individuals to participate in the development activities which enhance their creativity and capability in decision making. They form self-help groups with their own leadership to set goals for the development of the area. Skill trainings in leadership, management and accounting are provided. By way of saving-based programs, the groups set up funds for small business or use in emergency. In addition, project staff conducts healthcare classes and leads discussions on justice and rights issues for the community.