To raise awareness on disaster preparedness among people living in landslide-prone communities, a puppet show-based awareness drama titled “Eksathe Nirapode Banchi” was staged in several vulnerable areas of Chattogram City and Banshkhali Upazila from 9 to 11 March. The initiative aimed to spread early warning and preparedness messages among at-risk communities through an engaging and easy-to-understand performance.
The programme was organized by Young Power in Social Action (YPSA) with financial support from the German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO) and overall cooperation from Save the Children, while the drama was produced and performed by Canvas Puppet Show, Patiya.
Through lively puppetry and storytelling, the show highlighted the importance of anticipatory action based on disaster forecasts and encouraged community members to take early preparedness measures to reduce possible losses. Important messages were shared on the role of disaster management committees, community volunteers and weather clubs, shelter management, protection of livestock, preservation of crops and food, and emergency response during disasters.
The performances were held in several landslide-risk wards under Chattogram City Corporation and selected unions of Banshkhali Upazila, where the creative presentation attracted strong participation from local residents and helped them better understand the importance of early preparedness.
The awareness campaign was organized under the project titled “Child Centred Anticipatory Action for Better Preparedness of Communities and Local Institutions in Northern and Coastal Areas of Bangladesh.” The project is being implemented by YPSA with funding from GFFO, overall support from Save the Children, and technical assistance from RIMES.
Under the project, preparedness activities are being carried out in landslide-prone areas including Ward 7 West Sholoshahar, Ward 8 Shulkabaher, Ward 9 North Pahartali and Ward 14 Lalkhan Bazar of Chattogram City Corporation, and Boilchari, Sadhanpur, Pukuria and Kalipur unions of Banshkhali upazila, aiming to reduce disaster risks through community-based anticipatory actions.
As part of the programme, awareness discussions were also held with community members in the presence of project officials and representatives from partner organizations. The puppet show initiative proved to be an effective and engaging way to spread lifesaving messages and promote early preparedness among disaster-prone communities.