Bangladesh is set to receive a $2 million grant from Japan, which will be administered by the Asian Development Bank. This grant aims to help Bangladesh address the significant challenges posed by climate change in the coming years. The Asian Development Bank recently approved a technical assistance grant of $2 million from the Japan Special Fund to enhance the capacity of government agencies in implementing a 10-year Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan in Bangladesh. This plan focuses on addressing issues such as food security, disaster preparedness, and other important areas impacted by climate change. Zahir Ahmad, Project Implementation Officer for ADB's Bangladesh mission, emphasizes the importance of Bangladesh preparing to adapt to climate change in order to protect the well-being of its people. The ADB assistance will support the government in implementing the Strategy and Action Plan, which aims to lead the country towards low carbon growth, improve its climate resilience, and strengthen its food and energy security. A recent statement by ADB noted that the country has been experiencing higher temperatures, heavier monsoon rains, and more tropical cyclones and storms, all of which are attributed to climate change. It is projected that average sea levels could rise by 30 centimeters by 2050, putting 14% of the country at high risk of flooding. To address these challenges, the Ministry of Environment and Forests and other government agencies will be supported in developing climate change mitigation and adaptation programs. Additionally, a sub-programme will be implemented to attract private sector investment in clean energy projects eligible for carbon credits under the Kyoto Protocol. The total cost of this technical assistance is estimated at $2.5 million, with the government contributing $500,000 in-kind. The project will last for a duration of two years, commencing in August 2009, and will be carried out by the Ministry of Environment and Forests. The Japan Special Fund, funded by the government of Japan, will oversee the project's administration through ADB.