Bangladesh will be receiving a $2 million grant from Japan, facilitated by the Asian Development Bank, to address the significant challenges presented by climate change in the coming years. The ADB recently approved a technical assistance grant of $2 million from the Japan Special Fund to enhance the capabilities of government agencies responsible for carrying out the 10-year Bangladesh Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan. This plan focuses on crucial issues such as food security, disaster readiness, and other concerns related to climate change. According to Zahir Ahmad, the Project Implementation Officer for ADB's Bangladesh mission, it is crucial for Bangladesh to prepare for climate change and protect the well-being of its citizens. The assistance from ADB will enable the government to implement the Strategy and Action Plan, leading the country towards a path of low carbon growth, increased climate resilience, and improved food and energy security. According to a statement by ADB, the country has experienced higher temperatures, heavier monsoon rains, and more tropical cyclones and storms due to climate change in recent years. It is predicted 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 receive support to enhance their capacity, and specific climate change programs and projects will be developed. A sub-program will also be implemented to attract private sector investments in clean energy projects eligible for carbon credits under the Kyoto Protocol's Clean Development Mechanism. The total cost of the technical assistance is estimated at $2.5 million, with the government contributing $500,000 in-kind. The program 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, which is funded by the government of Japan, will be managed by ADB.