Assessment of Climate Variability and Adaptation through Field Observation in Tanguar Haor, Sunamganj, Sada Pathor, Sylhet and Jaflong
The Department of Meteorology, University of Dhaka, organized a four-day field study for its fourth-year students from 10 to 13 August 2026 as part of the course Weather and Climate Modeling (MET-Lb 410). A total of 17 students, two teachers, and one departmental staff member participated in the field study, conducted under the guidance and assistance of Department Chairman Dr. Rabiul Awal and course teacher Dr. MD Nazmul Ahsan.
With the theme “Observing Nature, Understanding Climate Change,” the field study aimed to connect classroom learning with real-world observations of weather, climate, environmental conditions, and local adaptation.
The journey began from Dhaka to Sylhet, followed by a visit to Tanguar Haor, Sunamganj.
Day 1: Lakmachora and Niladri Lake
On the first day, the students visited Lakmachora Pahar and Niladri Lake. The unique landscape of hills and water bodies provided an excellent setting for field-based observation. Students collected relevant field data and observed weather conditions and cloud cover. A visit to the local market also provided an opportunity to observe the livelihoods and environmental dependence of the local community.
Day 2: Bariktila
The second day began with a visit to Bariktila, where students continued their field observations and data collection. Weather conditions, cloud cover, and other relevant environmental characteristics were carefully observed and recorded. After completing the day's activities, the group returned to Sylhet.
Day 3: Jaflong
On the third day, the students visited Jaflong and Mayabi Jhorna. Field data were collected while students observed the surrounding environment, weather conditions, and cloud cover.
Conducting similar observations at different locations throughout the trip allowed students to appreciate how weather and environmental conditions can vary across different geographical settings.
Day 4: Practical Learning at the Bangladesh Meteorological Department
The fourth day began with a visit to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) station in Sylhet. Students observed different meteorological instruments and gained practical knowledge about their operation and applications in weather observation. The visit provided an important opportunity to connect theoretical meteorological concepts with practical observations.
Following the BMD visit, the group travelled to Sada Pathor, where further field data were collected and environmental conditions were observed. The final destination was Ratargul, where students experienced another distinctive natural ecosystem of Sylhet.
After completing the field activities, the students began their return journey to Dhaka by bus and arrived the following morning.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
The field study was more than a journey to several scenic locations. It provided fourth-year students with an opportunity to observe, measure, record, and interpret meteorological and environmental conditions directly in the field.
From the wetlands of Tanguar Haor to the diverse landscapes of Jaflong, Sada Pathor, and Ratargul, the journey offered valuable insights into the relationship between climate variability, natural environments, and human adaptation.
The experience also strengthened students' practical skills in field data collection and meteorological observation, while the BMD station visit provided valuable exposure to operational weather monitoring.
The four-day journey successfully combined academic learning, scientific observation, practical experience, and exploration, leaving the students with valuable knowledge and memorable experiences beyond the classroom.