Cyclone Classifier Model for Bottom-up Recovery Uptake in Bangladesh

Implementing Partner: Build Change

Project name: Cyclone Classifier Model for Bottom-up Recovery Uptake in Bangladesh

This project developed the Cyclone Classifier Model (CCM) to refine cyclone risk assessment and disaster preparedness.

By analyzing wind speed, storm surge, and potential damage, the CCM helps communities anticipate impacts, map vulnerable areas, and identify at-risk households.

As cyclones intensify in the Bay of Bengal, the model strengthens Bangladesh’s data-driven disaster management strategies, supporting targeted resilience planning and adaptive response efforts.

Global cyclone surges
occur in Bangladesh
0 %
Annual flood losses
in Bangladesh
$ 0 bn

Impact and Key Findings

1

The Cyclone Composite Model (CCM) improves cyclone forecasting by delivering precise location-based predictions, enabling faster alerts and more accurate risk assessments. This enhances early action strategies, strengthening protections for vulnerable coastal communities facing increasing cyclone threats. 

2

By synthesizing diverse data sources, the Cyclone Composite Model (CCM) enhances wind speed, storm surge, and damage estimations, equipping authorities with precise, science-based insights for effective disaster preparedness and rapid, data-driven response during cyclone events. 

3

The project enhances community resilience by equipping local volunteers, disaster management committees, and residents with cyclone preparedness training. This fosters grassroots engagement in early warning dissemination and response efforts, improving coordination and ensuring more effective disaster risk reduction. 

Resources

Aishwarya Pillai

Lead Specialist

Alpana heads institutional partnerships, governance, and resource mobilization at CDRI, advancing cross-sector collaborations that drive resilient infrastructure programming across Member Countries and organizations. With over 25 years of experience spanning international development, global health, and the non-profit sector, she brings deep expertise in fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and delivering strategic change. 

At CDRI, Alpana has been pivotal in forging strategic alliances with governments, international organizations, and philanthropies. She also plays a key role in fortifying institutional systems and board governance mechanisms as the Coalition transitions into an international organization. 

Before joining CDRI, Alpana held senior leadership roles at The George Institute for Global Health, Plan India, WaterAid India, and SOS Children’s Villages, leading institutional fundraising and cultivating strategic partnerships for social impact. 

She holds a Master’s in Finance & Control from Aligarh Muslim University and completed Executive Education at Harvard Business School (CSR India). Her work is driven by a commitment to building enduring, values-based partnerships that accelerate sustainable development outcomes. 

Alpana Saha

Director, Partnerships, Governance, and Resource Mobilisation 

Alpana heads institutional partnerships, governance, and resource mobilization at CDRI, advancing cross-sector collaborations that drive resilient infrastructure programming across Member Countries and organizations. With over 25 years of experience spanning international development, global health, and the non-profit sector, she brings deep expertise in fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and delivering strategic change. 

At CDRI, Alpana has been pivotal in forging strategic alliances with governments, international organizations, and philanthropies. She also plays a key role in fortifying institutional systems and board governance mechanisms as the Coalition transitions into an international organization. 

Before joining CDRI, Alpana held senior leadership roles at The George Institute for Global Health, Plan India, WaterAid India, and SOS Children’s Villages, leading institutional fundraising and cultivating strategic partnerships for social impact. 

She holds a Master’s in Finance & Control from Aligarh Muslim University and completed Executive Education at Harvard Business School (CSR India). Her work is driven by a commitment to building enduring, values-based partnerships that accelerate sustainable development outcomes.