Living on the Edge: Char Dwellers in Bangladesh

The book Living on the Edge: Char Dwellers in Bangladesh explores the issues and challenges faced by the communities living in the river channels, highlighting their isolation, vulnerability to natural hazards, and the threat of widespread inundation due to sea level rise. It provides valuable scholarship and policy prescriptions to improve their welfare.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 450 pages
Publication date: 29 July 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Bangladesh's river channels are graced with the presence of chars, which play a significant role in shaping its landscape. Despite their importance, these land masses remain isolated, deprived of essential services, and plagued by pockets of poverty. The inhabitants of the chars, known as char dwellers, face numerous threats, including the devastating effects of natural hazards such as floods and erosion. Moreover, the coastal chars are grappling with the imminent threat of widespread inundation due to sea level rise, a consequence of climate change. In this challenging scenario, the book "Living on the Edge: Char Dwellers in Bangladesh" has emerged as a valuable resource. Compiled by experts from around the world, this comprehensive collection offers a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the char dwellers and provides insightful policy recommendations to ensure their overall well-being.

The book delves into the diverse aspects of the char communities, exploring their historical background, cultural practices, and economic livelihoods. It sheds light on the struggles faced by these communities, including limited access to education, healthcare, and basic infrastructure. Through detailed case studies and empirical research, the book provides a comprehensive analysis of the factors contributing to the marginalization of char dwellers.

Furthermore, "Living on the Edge" offers practical solutions to address the challenges faced by the char dwellers. It advocates for the recognition of their rights and the implementation of policies that promote inclusive development and social protection. The book suggests strategies for improving access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and renewable energy sources, which are crucial for enhancing the quality of life and mitigating the impact of natural hazards.

In addition, the book highlights the importance of community-based management and participatory approaches in addressing the issues related to the chars. It emphasizes the need for engaging with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure that the policies and initiatives implemented are responsive to their needs and aspirations.

Overall, "Living on the Edge: Char Dwellers in Bangladesh" serves as a valuable tool for policymakers, researchers, and activists working to promote the rights and well-being of the char dwellers. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by these communities and offers practical solutions to address them. By recognizing the importance of the chars and their unique contributions to Bangladesh's landscape, this book contributes to the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and sustainable society.

Weight: 735g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030735944
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021