POLICY BRIEF: Lessons for the Future from Recent Cyclones in the Indian Sundarban Delta

By Sumana Banerjee, Katharine Vincent, and Tuhin Ghosh

This policy brief discusses the occurrence and impacts of three cyclones in the Indian Sundarban delta, with a focus on Cyclone Amphan and Cyclone Yaas, which occurred within the COVID-19 pandemic.

The brief highlights the varied impacts on different population groups, particularly those employed in the informal sector, and the challenges faced by rural delta dwellers in coping and adapting to the cyclones during the pandemic. It provides an overview of the gender differences in the activities undertaken by men and women within the recovery and rehabilitation period.

A range of recommendations are included, such as monitoring of mangrove plantations, compensation, and changes to evacuation measures.