Exploring local responses to coastal risks in Khulna City slums: Towards strengthening resilience

Abstract

Climate change is intensifying risks for coastal cities like Khulna, Bangladesh, making them especially vulnerable to cyclones, storm surges, sea level rise, flooding, waterlogging, saltwater intrusion, etc. Despite this, there is limited focus on how slum dwellers in Khulna respond to these hazards and adapt. Understanding their vulnerabilities and coping mechanisms is crucial for effective climate risk management. This study found 60% of slum residents are climate migrants who migrated from nearby disaster-affected areas such as Koyra and Paikgacha. Around 34% of the total respondents were found to be illiterate, while 43% of households live below the poverty line. The slums were found to be densely populated, with many residents coming from large families, and small-scale businesses were an important source of income for many. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified two major issues in the study area: flooding-related problems and salinity-related challenges. Regression analysis explored that increased flooding disrupts locals’ daily activities, causes infrastructure damage, and leads to economic crises, while salinity hazards aggravate long-term vulnerabilities. This study identified two types of adaptive solutions: resource-intensive solutions (e.g., drainage system improvement) and low-cost, locally managed solutions (e.g., social engagement), both of which could effectively ensure in-situ resilience and sustainability in slum communities. The critical insights from this study could contribute to resilience and sustainable planning efforts, particularly in disaster risk reduction for coastal cities.