Children’s perspective on adaptation to heat waves and heavy precipitation in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Abstract

Dhaka is one of the most vulnerable cities of the world to the adverse effects of climate change and variables. Children of Dhaka are the most vulnerable group of people to any crucial change in weather pattern or climate; i.e. heat wave and heavy precipitation. However, little research has been conducted with children on their perception of climate change which is important for developing coping strategies - resilience to inform urban development and planning policies for the city. This mixed method research conducted a cross-sectional survey on children of three schools in Dhaka. Analysis of the survey shows that socio-economic and educational background of the children defines their access to infrastructure, services and facilities; thus frame their experience and perception of vulnerabilities. Children have clear perception on the changes in temperature and rainfall in Dhaka. Although they feel more comfortable with heavy precipitation than increased heat, yet both the conditions affect their physiological health and daily activities negatively. The actions they suggested to cope with the negative impacts of climate change are mostly reactive than anticipatory in nature illustrating dependency on adults to increase their adaptive capacity. However their concern for every-day stress and well-being affected by the deteriorating weather conditions illustrate a sense of anxiety among them. The children also identified a few coping strategies - resilience to adapt to the impacts of extreme weather events that may inform to develop a comprehensive urban design guideline and planning policy for Dhaka.