Date

News Headlines

Executive Director participates in the 4th World Water Forum in Mexico

Contract agreement for mathematical modelling & topographic survey for Integrated Water Resources Management of Chalan Beel area including Beel Halti Development Project

05 Mar 06

27 Feb 06

13 Feb 06

30 Jan 06

19 Jan 06

IWM Young Professionals Trained on Basic Modelling Concept and Process Analysis

A week-long training programme, started on 7 September 2008, was conducted for twelve young professionals of IWM. The course aimed to provide the particiapants with a wide ranging appreciation of run-off, coastal, river and floodplain processes. Through these course the participants have become familiarized with basic modelling formulation of the physical process and their relative technologies. Mr. Mir Mostafa Kamal, Senior Specialist of IWM was the trainer of the course. In the closing ceremony of the programme, the Executive Director hoped that this programme would enrich the fundamental modelling knowledge of the participants with updated technology.  

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IWM Co-organizes International Seminar on Long Lead Flood Forecasting for Disaster Management in Bangladesh

Institute of Water Modelling co-organizes a two-day international seminar on 03 and 04 September 2008 at Dhaka Sheraton on Long Lead Flood Forecasting for Disaster Management in Bangladesh. The chief organizer of the seminar was Ministry of Water Resources. Dr. C.S. Karim, Adviser for Water Resources was the Chief guest of the progmme. The seminar was chaired by Mr. Badrul Alam Tarafdar, Addl. Secretary for Water Resources. The seminar was aimed to inform the people of Bangaldesh and in particular, the national and international scientific community about the technology achieved in increasing the lead time of flood forecasts from 1 to 10 days and its successful application at the community level. Mr. Sazedul Karim Chowdhury, Proejct Director, FFWC, BWDB presented the keynote paper in the seminar. Mr. Abu Saleh Khan, Head, Flood Management Division of IWM made a presentation titled "Assessment/ Lessons Learned in Generation of Long Lead Flood Forecast Product". IWM Executive Director summerised the recommendations in the seminar. IWM set up a stall in the lobby in connection with the seminar and displayed its products and services which attracted interests of visitors. The Water Advisor visited IWM stall and showed keen interest. 

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Contract Agreement for Flood Risk Management of Khatlon Province of Tajikistan

A contract agreement between BETS Consulting Service Ltd. and Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) has been signed on August 10, 2008 in the office of the Executive Director, BETS Consulting Service Ltd. (BETS), Gulshan, Dhaka to carry out the mathematical modeling study in connection with the Consultancy Services for Khatlon Province Flood Risk Management Project in Tajikistan. Mr. Emaduddin Ahmad, Executive Director of IWM and Dr. Abdus Shabur, Executive Director, BETS Consulting Service Ltd. signed the contract agreement on behalf of their respective organizations.
 

BETS (in association with IWM) entered into an agreement with the Republic of Tajikistan, Ministry of Land Reclamation and Water Resources for providing consultancy services for developing a sustainable flood management strategy for the four flood prone districts of Khatlon province of Tajikistan. The proposed flood management strategy would be a combination of structural and non-structural measures to make it effective and sustainable. With a long background of flood management utilizing mathematical model in Bangladesh IWM will support the study developing mathematical models of the river and floodplain of the project area and also by introducing flood forecasting models in Tajikistan. The developed model will also support the feasibility study for flood protection of high risk areas from two rivers namely Kizilsu and Yakhsu.
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Spanish Delegates Visit IWM : Opportunity for Cooperation in Irrigation Development Discussed.

A three member Spanish delegation headed by Mr. Carlos Ramos Garcia paid a visit to the Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) on 1st July 2008. Mr. Emaduddin Ahmad, Executive Director, IWM welcomed the guests and made a brief presentation about IWM activities and diversified capability of the centre. The presentation was attended by Division heads of IWM also. A lively discussion took place after the presentation where bilateral fields of cooperation were discussed.

















The delegation expressed their interest on IWM capabilities and its fields of operation. Among the different issues, the team showed keen interest specially in the field of irrigation development and management. The team showed special interests on how mathematical modelling can improve irrigation development and management. The possibility of areas of cooperation from the Spanish government were discussed in the meeting.

At the end of the programme, the Executive Director presented IWM crests to the visiting team.  

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JICA team visits IWM: Opportunity for capacity building emphasized

A seven member JICA delegation headed by Ms. Nobuko Suzuki Kayashima, Resident Representative, JICA Bangladesh Office paid a visit to the Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) on 10 June 2008. The delegation was briefed about the overall IWM activities and capabilities through a presentation by the Executive Director. Brief presentations by division heads on climate change, water and sanitation, Surface and Groundwater management, geo-physical setting of Bangladesh were followed after the Executive Director’s presentation to inform the JICA team about the diversified capability and activities of IWM.

The delegation expressed their interest on IWM capabilities and assured to involve IWM in their future projects in the field of water modelling and related programmes. From IWM side, opportunity for  capacity building including technical support, higher study opportunities in Japan, satellite information, collaborative research activities were discussed. For greater benefit, capacity building support from the Government of Japan for long term projects were sought in the meeting. The team assured that they would enhance their assistance for capacity building. At the end of the programme, the Executive Director presented an IWM crest to the visiting team leader. 

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Augmentation and awareness can save Buriganga – Water Adviser

“Buriganga can be saved through augmentation and increasing public awareness. Today’s status of the Buriganga is the outcome of human negligence.” Agriculture and Water Resources Adviser Dr. C.S. Karim said while addressing the seminar as chief guest on “Sustainability of the Buriganga River : Augmentation of Dry Season Flow”, held at BARC auditorium on 31 March 2008 .  The seminar was jointly organized by Bangladesh National Committee of ICID (BANCID) and Institute of Water Modelling (IWM). “The time has come to discuss the possible routes of transferring water from Jumuna to Buriganga. We will take a decision based on experts’ opinion'’ he added.

Mr. Emaduddin Ahmad, PEng. Executive Director of Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) presented the keynote paper titled “Sustainability of the Buriganga River - Augmentation of Dry Season Flow”. In the keynote paper the presenter showed four Possible Routes identified as four options for Flow Augmentation in the Buriganga. He said that according to IWM study, around 50 to 60 percent of the contamination of Buriganga is caused by industrial effluent and the rest by domestic wastewater. He also identified nine industrial clusters in the Dhaka watershed which are the main sources of pollution. He also discussed the probable remedial measures.

Water and environment experts from different national and international organizations participated in and addressed the seminar. The experts commented that the River Buriganga can be saved by setting up an augmentation route through the New Dhaleswari-Pungli-Bangshi-Turag-Buriganga rivers.

Participants commented that the quality of water in Buriganga and other rivers that surround Dhaka is deteriorating every day. The situation worsens particularly during the five months of dry season from January through May because the rivers around Dhaka city hardly get any water flow during this period.

Prof Abdullah Abu Sayeed, Chairman of Bishwa Shahitya Kendro, urged the caretaker government to take immediate measures against polluters who do not comply with wastewater treatment guidelines and regulation.

The seminar was presided by Bangladesh Water Development Board Director General HS Mozaddad Faruque. Amongst the guests and participants Former Privatisation Commission Chairman Mr. Enam A Chaudhury, Additional Secretary of Ministry of Water Resources Mr. Badrul Alam Tarafdar, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) professor M Fazlul Bari, former professor of Dhaka University KB Sajjadur Rasheed addressed the seminar.
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Contract Agreement for Monitoring of Hydraulic and Morphological Conditions for the Safety of the Jamuna Multipurpose Bridge during the Year 2008-2009

A contract agreement between Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA) and Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) has been signed on January 31, 2008 in the office of the Executive Director, Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA), Banani Dhaka to carry out the monitoring of hydraulic and morphological conditions for the safety of the Jamuna Multipurpose Bridge during the year 2008-2009.

Mr. Emaduddin Ahmad, Executive Director, IWM and Mr. Mir Abu Sufian, Chief Engineer (in-charge) & Project Director signed the contract agreement on behalf of their respective organizations. Among the high officials of both the organizations, BBA Executive Director Mr. Mr. Khan M Ibrahim Hossain, Director Admin Mr. Md. Masud Elahi, Director (F&A) Mr. A.K.M. Yahea Chowdhury, Executive Engineer Mr. Liaquat Ali, Head of River Engineering Division of IWM Mr. Zahirul Haque Khan, Senior Water Resource Planning and Design Specialist Mr. Anwar Hossain Bhuiyan, Senior Strategic Planning Specialist & BD Manager Mr. Mahendra Chandra Dey and Junior Specialist Mr. Farhad Hossain Sarker were present in the signing ceremony. 

Formulating monitoring plan for safe operation and maintenance programme including disaster preparedness, assessment of the impact of char migration & flow pattern changes on the river training structures and identifying probable erosion prone areas in the vicinity of the bridge would be furnished from the modelling study. The duration of the study is two years. 

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IWM demonstrates the benefits of mathematical modelling technique in managing water resources infrastructure in the second NARBO workshop: legal, technical and social issues of infrastructure management presented

The benefits of application of mathematical modelling technique in managing water resources infrastructure in Bangladesh was demonstrated in the Second Thematic Workshop of Network of Asian River Basin Organizations (NARBO) on Sustainable Management of Water Resources Infrastructures held during 24 to 27 October 2007 in the capital city of Bangladesh. Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) and Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) jointly organized the workshop. 

A total of six participants from Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Japan participated in the workshop. In the first day of workshop, two papers from Bangladesh were presented. Md. Azizul Haque, Director, Planning-I, BWDB presented a paper on “Management of Flood, Drainage and Irrigation related Infrastructures in the context of Bangladesh”. Teesta Barrage Project, Phase-I and Khulna-Jessore Drainage Rehabilitation Project were highlighted in the paper. Md. Masud Hassan, Senior Specialist, IWM presented the other paper on “Application of Mathematical Model for Management of Flood Control, Drainage & Irrigation related infrastructures in the context of Bangladesh”. Management of Flood Control Embankment of Gumti River and Sagarkhali-Borobeela Drainage Project were presented in the paper. 

In connection with the workshop, a two-day field visit was arranged to demonstrate the efforts towards management of water infrastructure in Bangladesh. For the field visit, two potential sites- Meghna-Dhonagoda Irrigation Project(MDIP) and Muhuri Irrigation Project (MIP) were selected.

In the last day of the workshop, Mr. Emaduddin Ahmad, Executive Director, IWM presented different issues such as legal, technical and social aspect that are vital for infrastructure management in the context of Management of Flood Control Embankment of Gumti River and Sagarkhali-Borobeela Drainage Project. He also put forward some measures for enhancing the effectiveness of these issues.

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Deputy Executive Director of IWM actively participates in the 3rd Southeast Asia Water Forum at Kuala Lumpur 

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Increased lead-time upto 10 days for flood forecasting can save lives and properties from flood havoc -- Speakers in the Seminar

Increased lead-time upto 10 days for flood forecasting can save lives and properties from flood havoc. The speakers came up with a decision in a seminar on Flood Forecasting in Bangladesh with Special Focus on Flood 2007 at CIRDAP Auditorium of the capital on 20 August 2007. The Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre’s forecast lead time of 48-72 hours is observed to be quite inadequate for checking infrastructure and agri-damage. The seminar jointly organized by Bangladesh Water Development Board and Institute of Water Modelling stressed to increase the lead time to 10 days for better outcome of the forecasting. The seminar urged a basin-wide flood management approach to extend the lead time of forecasts.

In his welcome speech, Engr. Jalaluddin Md. Abdul Hye, Chief Engineer Hydrology, BWDB said, “Sea-level rise due to climate change is now a reality and it would cause prolonged retardation of discharge from rivers to the Bay, thus increasing the vulnerability due to floods.” Claiming remarkable success in the flood forecasting and warning he added: “the accurate and timely forecast of flash flood in the North-Eastern region saved Boro rice, and effective disaster management is possible through launching a strong hydrological data of both the monsoon and the dry season.”

Mr. Abu Saleh Khan, Head of Flood Management Division of IWM while presenting his paper in the seminar titled “Lead-time in Flood Forecasting—past experience and way forward” discussed the issue from ‘Climate Forecast Application in Bangladesh (CFAB)’ experience, where it was even made possible to provide seasonal outlook starting at the beginning of the monsoon with 1-6 months lead time. Stressing on making the best use of technology right from now, he said that efforts should be concentrated to priorities the land topographic data collection to demarcate extreme flood-prone areas.

Mr. Saiful Hossain, Executive Engineer, FFWC of BWDB presented another paper in the seminar. In his paper he laid emphasis on availability of a suitable model, computer with GIS software, trained manpower and close interaction and coordianation among the concerned institutions can play big role in developing Decision Support System.

In the papers the presenters discussed on Flood 2007 and showed how the flood 2007 differs from the Floods of recent past years. A number of designated discussants took part in the discussion on the papers. After the presentation and discussion on the papers a question and answer session took place where professional expertise from BWDB and different national and international organizations took part. The session was chaired by Mr. Habibur Rahman, Chief Planning, Bangladesh Water Development Board.

Mr. Badrul Alam Tarafdar, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources, graced the occasion as Chief guest while Professor Dr. M. Mirjahan, Head, Water Resources Engg. Deptt, BUET attended as Special guest.  The seminar was attended by the participants from the concerned local oraganisations as well as donor agencies and foreign missions. The seminar ended with a vote of thanks from Mr. Sharif uzzaman Choudhury, Deputy Executive Director of IWM.

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Shared Decision Making stressed in Executive Director's presentation in NARBO workshop

Shared decision making under participatory approach can ease out existing conflicts at the Karnaphuli River Basin . The Executive Director of IWM expressed the above views in his presentation in “Network of Asia River Basin Organization (NARBO)” workshop held at Hanoi , Vietnam during 11-14 June 2007.  Through his presentation the Executive Director showed how the minimum release from Kaptai Dam caused highest salinity in Halda river basin resulting tremendous stress in water supply for the Chittagong port city. The presentation was praised by the participants. The workshop was attended by 18 members from 6 countries.

The objective of the workshop was to share experiences of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) in river basins throughout Asia while NARBO’s objective is to strengthen the capacity and effectiveness of River Basin Organizations (RBOs) in promoting IWRM. Participants from different countries shared their experiences in overcoming similar problems; such as Sri Lanka on the reservoir siltation, Thailand on Institutional Development for RBO, Indonesia on Effective Water Resources Management and Vietnam on Hydraulic Structure Operation and Maintenance considering need for different users and under co-riparian constraints.

The workshop organizers arranged two field trips for the participants. These visits included Nue Kock reservoir and Hong Thai Binh River Basin and Bac Hung Hai project areas.

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Mathematical modelling could be dependable tool to understand river behavior - Speakers in the Seminar

Mathematical modelling could be a dependable tool to study river behavior before and after bridge construction—the speakers came up with this view in a seminar at Roads & Highways Department (RHD) auditorium jointly organized by Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) and Sarak-O-Janapath Prokousholi Samity of Roads & Highways Department on 23 May 2007.

Secretary for Communications addressing as chief guest in the seminar             Executive Director IWM presenting keynote paper in the seminar

Mr. Mohammad Mahbubur Rahman, Ph.D, Secretary, Ministry of Communications graced the the program as Chief Guest while Mr. Muhammad Abdul Mazid, Member Infrastructure attended as Special Guest. Engr. Md. Abdul Malek, Chief Engineer of RHD chaired the seminar.

Mr. Emaduddin Ahmad, PEng, Executive Director of IWM presented the keynote paper titled “Mathematical Modelling in Road Infrastructure Management and Bridge Hydraulics”.

In the seminar various aspects of mathematical modelling were discussed. The main focus of the seminar was the intensive use of IWM’s state-of-the-art mathematical modelling for RHD projects in the recent years. The speakers praised IWM’s contribution to the national development through its model studies for various important roads and bridge projects.

A lively discussion took place after presentation of the paper, where decision making officials and experienced Engineers of RHD and guests and representatives from different donor organizations, local consulting firms took part. From the discussion many important technical problems and their likely solutions in using the mathematical models came up.

The seminar ended with a note of closer interaction between IWM officials and RHD Engineers for effective use of mathematical model in different RHD projects in future.

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Contract Agreement between IWM and Nippon Koei Ltd. for Field Investigation for GK Irrigation Project

Exchanging of contract between IWM and Nippon Koei Co. Ltd

"Strengthening IWM is a national interest" -- Water Adviser

Water Adviser Major General Dr. A.S.M. Matiur Rahman (retd) stressed strengthening Institute of Water Modelling as a national interest. During his visit to the institute on 30 April 2007, the adviser praised the activities and achievement of IWM.

Training-cum-Workshop on Groundwater Assessment and Modelling

IWM organized a 3-day training cum workshop programme on groundwater assessment and modelling for senior level professionals of Dhaka WASA from January 29 to February 01, 2007. The programme, connected with an ongoing DWASA project titled “Resource Assessment and Monitoring of Water Supply Sources to Dhaka City”, was held in IWM premise and attended by four participants. The training-cum-workshop session introduced the participants to various aspects of groundwater resource assessment and modelling including system approach in groundwater hydrology, hydrological and field investigations, use of MODFLOW, collection, processing and analysing of GW data, application of DRASTIC method for assessing aquifer vulnerability, environment assessment & management etc.

In the certificate awarding ceremony of the training programme the participants expressed their gratitude to IWM for arranging such an useful training programme which would add to their professional expertise.

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Training on Database Management in connection with CFAN project

IWM organized a 10-day training program on Database Management for the professionals of FFWC and BMD from January 24 to February 06, 2007. The program, connected with an ongoing Climate Forecast Application Network project, was held in IWM premise and attended by eleven participants. The training session introduced the participants to various aspects of Database Management, which included data management from various sources including GIS, Machine Learning, Satellite driven rainfall, Weather Forecast Model of ECMWF etc.

In the certificate awarding ceremony of the training programme, the executive Director of IWM thanked the participants for attending the training programme. The participants expressed their gratitude to IWM for the arrangement.

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IWM Executive Director presents on Integrated Management of
Karnafuli River Basin
 

Mr. Emaduddin Ahmad, Executive Director of Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) delivered a presentation on Integrated Management of Karnafuli River Basin in a joint seminar held on 6^th January 2007 at IEB Seminar Hall. The seminar was participated by Engineering Staff College Bangladesh of IEB, AIT Alumni Association Bangladesh and Institute of Water Modelling.

In his presentation Mr. Ahmad pictured the scenario in respect to pre and post dam situation in Karnafuli basin. He showed how inundation mapping model helped to build confidence in various ethnic groups in the hilly area. Thorough his presentation, Mr. Ahmad informed that, after being engaged by Bangaldesh Power Development Board, IWM’s computer generated Decision Support System worked for smooth operation of the reservoir. Mr. Ahmad viewed that a suitable tool for optimisation of Kaptai dam release could support a wiser decision among various options keeping the relevant parties informed to resolve conflict that arose from diversified interests. Upstream inundation flooding and downstream shortage of irrigation water, salinity intrusion, water pollution, navigation issues were also highlighted in his presentation.

In the seminar another presentation on “Winning the Knowledge Transfer Race : Key to Wealth Generation and Growth in 21st Century was made by Prof. Dr. Md. Nazrul Islam from School of Management of Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Bangkok. Both the presentations were followed by lively Question & Answer sessions.

At the beginning of the seminar Mr. SMH Bokhari, President of AIT Alumni Association of Bangladesh introduced the presenters to the audience. Past president of IEB, Engr. Kamrul Islam Siddique was the Chief Guest while Mr. Hannan, Rector of Engineering Staff College of IEB chaired the occasion.

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Contract Agreement for pre-feasibility study for the proposed harbour on the Karnafuli left bank near KAFCO plant

A contract agreement between Karnaphuli Fertilizer Company Ltd. (KAFCO) and Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) has been signed on the 16^th October, 2006 at the corporate office of KAFCO at IDB Bhaban (13^th floor), E/8-A, Rokeya Sharani, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka-1207 to carry out the pre-feasibility study for the proposed harbour on the left bank of the Karnafuli River near KAFCO plant at Rangadia, Anwara, Chittagong.

Mr. Emaduddin Ahmad, PEng., Executive Director, IWM and Mr. Alan D. Stewart, Finance Director, KAFCO  signed the contract on behalf of their respective organizations., Mr. Jalaluddin Md. Abdul Hye, PEng., Deputy Executive Director (P&D) and Mr. Zahirul Haque Khan, Head, Coast, Port & Estuary Management Division of IWM and Md. Mahbub-Ul-Alam, General Manager, Procurement, KAFCO were present on the occasion. The study will be for seven months commencing from the 1^st November 2006.

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Close Interaction among Institutions Stressed for Early Warning Systems

In a recent workshop held at Spectra Convention Centre of the capital, the speakers and experts stressed on close interaction among data collecting and coordinating agencies for Early Warning System (EWS) for improved flood forecasting in Bangladesh. The Executive Director of Institute of Water Modelling, Mr. Emaduddin Ahmad, also the Team Leader of EWS study, spoke in the same tune. In his presentation, Mr. Ahmad emphasized on data providing agencies and institutional development. Manual data collection statistics to be maintained for improved warning system, he commented. While presenting on potentials of increased lead-time, Mr. Ahmad viewed that extended lead-time could ensure saving of valuable lives and assets.

Ms. Hua Du, Country Director of Asian Development Bank and a Special Guest on the occasion, applauded Mr. Ahmad’s presentation and emphasized on data sharing among the agencies. Fritz Meijndert, Head, Development Cooperation of the Netherlands Embassy remarked that poverty reduction depends on transboundary issues. Regional cooperation and exchange of data got priority in his speech as Special Guest.

Syed Mohammad Zobaer, Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources, another Special Guest on the occasion advised the study team to come up with very specific recommendations. He acknowledged the UNDP and ADB support in flood forecasting issues and expressed his appreciation to the Team Leader and the other members of the study team.

The inaugural session of the workshop was chaired by the Director General of Bangladesh Water Development Board, Mr. Sharif Rafiqul Islam, while the business session was chaired by Mr. MH Siddiqui, BU, a national water resources expert. The workshop was attended by nearly one hundred water professionals from different organisations.

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Dutch Delegation of Rijkswaterstraat Visits IWM

A five member Dutch delegation of Rijkswaterstraat headed by Ir. Ingwer J. de Boer visited IWM on 24 August 2006. The delegation was briefed about IWM activities including HRD through a presentation by the Executive Director. The delegation expressed interest on IWM activities and its achievements. The team was accompanied by the Deputy Executive Directors during their visit to various Divisions of the Institute. Respective Division Heads also briefed them about the capability of IWM and important projects carried out in different times. The Dutch team showed particular interest in IWM activities in coastal areas and also flood management and erosion. At the end of the programme, the Executive Director presented IWM crest to the head of the team.
 

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Workshop on Groundwater Model Study for Deep Tubewell Installation in Barind Area
Conjunctive Use of Groundwater and Surface Water Stressed

Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) and Barind Multipurpose Development Authority (BMDA) organized a workshop in the BMDA Conference Room on 17^th June, 2006 on Draft Final Report of Groundwater Model Study for Deep Tubewell installation in Barind Area. Mr. Kamaluddin Ahmad, Division Chief, General Economic Division of Planning Commission addressed the inaugural session as the chief guest. Dr. Asad uz Zaman, Executive Director of BMDA chaired the occasion while Director General of WARPO Mr. HS Mozaddad Faruque chaired the technical session. Deputy Executive Director of IWM Mr. Sharifuzzaman Choudhury also addressed in the workshop.

In the technical session of workshop Team Leader of the Study Dr. AFM Afzal Hossain, Mr. S.M. Shah-Newaz and Project Leader Mr. Masud Hasan presented papers on the study.Joint Chiefs of Planning Commission Mr. Hamidur Rahman, Joint Chief of Ministry of Agriculture Mr. Habibur Rahman and Joint Chief of Ministry of Water Resources Mr. Abdur Razzak addressed the workshop as panel discussants.

The experts attended in the workshop underscored the need for proper use of groundwater for irrigation purposes in the greater interest of protecting ecological balance in the region.

The study was conducted in order to use the modern modelling technique to increase agricultural production through optimum utilization of available water resources. The study recommended that conjunctive use of surface water and groundwater irrigation should be promoted and surface water irrigation project like North Rajshahi Irrigation and surface water retention of kharies should be implemented.

The workshop was attended by around 200 high officials including researchers from the concerned ministries and planning commission, BWDB, WARPO, RUET, BADC, DAE, RU etc. A lively question and answer took place in the workshop. The occasion was ended with a vote of thanks from Mr. Khalequzzaman, Project Director, BMDA.

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Executive Director participates in the 4th World Water Forum in Mexico

Multi-lateral institutions expressed great interests in IWM models

Mr. Emaduddin Ahmad, PEng., Executive Director of IWM participated in the 4th World Water Forum held in Mexico from 16th to 22nd March this year as one of the six member delegation from Bangladesh. The forum gave the opportunity to the Executive Director to exchange opinion on various areas of interest with bi-lateral and multi-lateral institutions of different countries.

On 18th March 2006, the Executive Director had a specific session on IWRM using mathematical modelling under the session "Shared Vision Models". There were four presentations in the session on the use of mathematical modelling in resolving water management problems at local level, the findings to be used in the region and at the global level in fulfilling the objective of the WWF.

The Executive Director made a presentation on Karnafuly River Basin. The presentation clearly demonstrated the capability of mathematical modelling in resolving the likely conflict between additional power generation by commissioning two more units at Kaptai vis a vis satisfying the need of upstream farmer and thus optimizing the decision making on a win-win situation. The participants in the Forum appreciated the capability of mathematical modelling presented from Bangladesh experiences.

During this forum the Executive Director had several meetings and discussions with the Team Leader of World Water Report and IHE, Netherlands representatives. The IHE  representative has shown great interest for developing areas of cooperation between  the two institutions.

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IWM staff receives EU Award for research

Mr. Goutam Chandra Mridha, a Junior Specialist of the Irrigation Management Division of IWM, has achieved 'Development Cooperation Award' for his research on Master's dissertation from Belgian Minister for Development Cooperation funded by European Union. His research title was Groundwater - surface water interactions model for water resources management - A case study in Northwestern Bangladesh. Each year awards are given to students and young scientists, based on a scientific work of high relevance for development. The principal aim of the award is the sustainable development with priority to poverty alleviation. The award will be handed over by the Minister for Development Co-operation of Belgium at the Royal Museum for Central Africa (Belgium) on 31st May 2006.

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Contract agreement for mathematical modelling & topographic survey for Integrated Water Resources Management of Chalan Beel area including Beel Halti Development Project

A contract agreement was signed between Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) and Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) on 11 December, 2005 at the office of the Secretary, BWDB, WAPDA Bhaban, Motijheel, Dhaka. The aim of the modelling study and survey is to support the Main Consultant in devising an Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) plan for the Chalan Beel Project area including Beel Halti Development Project. The study would be carried out within a period of 18 months, and is scheduled for completion by June 2007.

IWM professional received training on Isotopes and Geo-chemical modeling 

Ms. Zebunnesa Amena, a Junior Engineer of Institute of Water Modelling participated in the training course on Isotopes and Geochemical Modelling in Groundwater Contamination held at from 3 to 14 October 2005 in Mumbai, India. The course was organised by International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria in collaboration with Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai.

The main objective of the training was to provide participating young professionals of RCA member countries with adequate practical training in methodologies for isotope data interpretation and geochemical modelling for groundwater contamination.         

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IWM staff acquainted with latest development and improvement
in DHI modelling software
 

A 3 week long advanced training programme (phase- I), started on 29 January 2006, on Morphological Modelling was held at the IWM premises. The program was organized by Danish Hydraulic Institute in collaboration with IWM. The occasion aimed at strengthening the capability of the IWM specialist with latest development and improvement in MIKE 21C morphological modeling so that the trainees can independently simulate, calibrate, validate the morphological models and thereby apply for river erosion management. DHI provided expatriate for the training program. A number of eleven IWM professionals received the training. The training comprised two phases. The second phase will be held in April 2006.

In connection with the occasion a certificate awarding ceremony was held on 16 February, 2006 in a local restaurant of the city. Syed Mohammad Zobaer, Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources and Chairperson, IWM Board of Trustees was the Chief Guest while Mr. Emaduddin Ahmad, PEng., the Executive Director of IWM chaired the occasion. Mr. Jalaluddin Md. Abdul Hye, PEng., Deputy Executive Director (P&D) of IWM gave welcome speech on the occasion. Mr. H S Mozaddad Faruque, Director General, Water Resources and Planning Organisation, Mr. M Fazlul Bari, Head, Water Resources Engineering Department of BUET, Mr. Maksudul Haque, Additional Chief Engineer, Procurement Cell, Roads and Highways Department also attended the occasion among others. Dr. Bo Brahtz Christensen, the DHI expert presented his observation on the training and the trainees. On behalf of the trainees, Mr. MM Zahid Ahmed, Associate Specialist of IWM gave a presentation on the benefit derived from the training.      

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SAARC Expert Group on Disaster Management Visited Sirajganj Hard Point
DED (P&D) of IWM presents on Jamuna Erosion

The type and extent of protective measures to mitigate Jamuna erosion could be achieved through mathematical modeling, said Mr. Jalaluddin Md. Abdul Hye, PEng., Deputy Executive Director (P&D) of IWM in a presentation on 9^th February, 2006. The presentation was delivered at the DC office of Sirajgong and attended by the SAARC expert group on Disaster Management and aimed to cover the whole gamut of activities encompassing Jamuna right bank protection. In his presentation Mr. Jalal rendered about the catchment areas of the major rivers in Bangladesh. The causes of bank erosion, development and movement of chars in Jamuna were detailed in his presentation.

Other discussants highlighted the comprehensive disaster management, capacity building initiative, community empowerment, risk reduction measures and flood protection and mitigation activities. 

Later the SAARC expert group visited Sirajganj Hard Point and investigated the situation of the site.

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New Chairperson at IWM Premises

Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) received its new Chairperson of Board of Trustees Mr. Syed Mohammad Zobaer, Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources in its own premises on Wednesday, February 1, 2006. Mr. Emaduddin Ahmad, PEng., Executive Director and Mr. Sharifuzzaman Choudhury, Deputy Executive Director (Operation) of IWM accompanied the Chairperson during his visit to the different divisions of the Institute.

Through a Power Point Presentation the Executive Director made a presentation to get the new Chairperson acquainted with the IWM Management, Vision and mission, activities, present and future goals of the Institute. He also introduced different models and their functions. The presentation session was also attended by Mr. Jalaluddin Md. Abdul Hye, PEng., Deputy Executive Director (P&D) and all the division heads of IWM.

The new Chairperson took keen interest on different models and projects which the institute has developed. He appreciated IWM for its exposure to the international arena. Later the Executive Director presented IWM crest to the Chairperson

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IWM Intends to Enhance Collaboration with BUET

Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) intends to enhance collaboration with BUET. In a certificate awarding ceremony on 26 January, 2006 among twelve interns from Water Resources Engineering Department of BUET, Mr. Emaduddin Ahmad, the Executive Director of IWM expressed that this kind of collaboration for the BUET students would be enhanced in future. He hoped that the expectation of BUET would be achieved by the students participated in the internship programme. 

Professor Dr. M. Fazlul Bari, Head, Deptt. of Water Resource Engineering of BUET thanked IWM for this cooperation and expressed his gratitude to IWM. In his address as the Chief Guest, Dr. Bari expressed that this introduction of the latest modelling tools and software used by IWM in solving water related problems would update the knowledge of the students. 

In welcome speech, Mr. M Mahboob-ul-Kabir, Head (in-charge), HRD of IWM appreciated the students for their sincere participation. Mr. Sharifuzzaman Choudhury, Deputy Executive Director (Opn) and Mr. Jalaluddin Md. Abdul Hye, PEng., Deputy Executive Director (P&D) also spoke, among others. 

Ms. Sabina Sadek, Associate Specialist of IWM addressed as one of the supervisors of the students and Ms. Farhana Huq addressed on behalf of the students about the experience during the internship programme. The programme was conducted during 3 to 26 January 2006.

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IWM Users Conference 2005
Fruitful Discussion by Users and Clients on Water Issues

Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) organised its 5^th Users Conference on December 6, 2005 at BIAM Auditorium, Dhaka as a part of its annual activities. The conference exchanged ideas between the IWM and its valued clients and potential users and to get feedback from them to contribute to the development of mathematical model as a decision support tool in all phases of water management. The conference brought IWM in close contact with all potential clients in a single forum.

A written statement from the pre-occupied Chief Guest Mr. Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, BB, MP, Hon’ble Minister for Water Resources was read out by Mr. Syed Mohammad Zobaer, Addl. Secretary to the Ministry of Water Resources.

State Minister for Planning and Finance Major General (rtd) Mr. Anwarul Kabir Talukder MP, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Mr. Mirza Fakrul Islam Alamgir MP, State Minister for Communications Mr. Salahuddin Ahmed, Secretary to the Ministry of Water Resources Mr. S.M. Jahrul Islam and Executive Director of IWM Mr. Emaduddin Ahmad, PEng. also addressed, among others.

Mr. Sharif Rafiqul Islam, Director General of BWDB, applauded IWM in his speech for tremendous job in flood forecasting issues, Teesta Command Area Development, Haor Development projects etc. He said, “whatever the projects are being implemented and whatever the projects are being thought of, we are of course giving any sophisticated technical input from any organisation particularly IWM.” He hoped for the interest of the country, water professionals and all engineers, scientists and people connected with the water resources should put head together and find the ultimate solutions to our water resources problems.

Mr. Asad Uz Zaman, Executive Director of Barind Multipurpose Development Authority thanked IWM for the fruitful study in Barind Area. He supported the IWM Executive Director’s comments regarding the project wise plans rather nationwide potentials which would ensure sustainable development in water issues. He hoped IWM would design and provide a widely accepted policy in water related issues. 

Dr. Kazi Ali Azam, Managing Director of Dhaka WASA expressed his hope that IWM would include pollution protection issues along with their studies. He advised IWM to popularise the models they are developing. Mr. Azam mentioned two big projects currently being carried out by IWM for DWASA and appraised tremendous IWM effort in this regard. 

Additional Chief Engineer of RHD, Mr.A.R.M Anwar Hossain applauded IWM for its contribution to big bridge projects like Jamuna Bridge, Pakshi Bridge, Rupsha Bridge etc. He emphasized on cross checking and statistical analyzing of the data for model development.  

“I can very honestly trust with IWM and even the location along with the span, dispersion and location of the peers. And then nature and extent of river training, which is very complex, even for a hydraulic engineer. I can entrust very much this responsibility with IWM and nonetheless it is the sustainable study of the behavior of the rivers which seems more complex than anything else in the world. If I can entrust IWM with all these complexities, I think our life will be a bit easier.” He added.

The conference was attended by more than four hundred water professionals and decision makers. Prior to the Users Conference, three associated seminars were held on Mathematical Modelling in Urban Water Management and Mathematical Modelling in Water Resources Management on 28 November 2005 and Seminar on Mathematical Modelling in Road Infrastructure Management on 4 December 2005. The recommendations were highlighted in the report presented in the conference by the Executive Director of IWM. The occasion was ended with vote of thanks by the Deputy Executive Director (P&D) of IWM Mr. Jalaluddin Md. Abdul Hye, PEng.

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