** January 2024 News from Sentinel Asia Project Office **- * - * - * - * - * - *- * - * - * - * - * - *- * - * - * - * - * - *Topics:
1. [News] Emergency Observation of Disasters (as of 30 January)
2. [Report] Sentinel Asia Annual Report 2022 has been published!
3. [Interview] Mr. Abdullah Muhammad Mustofa Sorwar, Bangladesh Water Development Board(BWDB)
4. How to send an Emergency Observation Request
5. Using Sentinel Asia Operation System, OPTEMIS- * - * - * - * - * - *- * - * - * - * - * - *- * - * - * - * - * - *1. [News] Emergency Observation of Disasters (as of 30 January)(1) Earthquake in Japan on 1 January, 2024 (GLIDE Number EQ-2024-000001-JPN)
A 7.6 magnitude earthquake hit western Japan and tsunami waves of up to 1.2 meters (4 feet)
hit a number of areas along the country’s western coast on 1 January 2024.
According to NHK WORLD, this earthquake caused the deaths of more than 200 people, with
22 others still unaccounted for. In addition, water was cut off to more than 49,000 households
CNN reported power outages were also severe, with approximately 33,000 homes in Ishikawa
Prefecture hit by the quake experiencing power outages.
https://edition.cnn.com/asia/live-news/japan-ishikawa-earthquake-01-01-24/index.html
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240122_06/
The Asian Disaster Reduction Center (ADRC) made an EOR to Sentinel Asia on 2 January andthis EOR was escalated to the International Disasters Charter. Yamaguchi University assumed
the role of Project Manager for this Charter activation.
Among DPNs, JAXA, TASA, ISRO, and MBRSC provided data. Among DANs, EOS, TASA,AIT, and MBRSC provided their VAPs. Information on the latest response by Sentinel Asia isavailable at the link below.
https://sentinel-asia.org/EO/2024/article20240101JP.html

Value-Added Product by EOS

Value-Added Product by TASA

Value-Added Product by AIT

Value-Added Product by MBRSC

Post-disaster satellite image (ALOS-2) provided by JAXA

Post-disaster satellite image (FORMOSAT-5) provided by TASAPost-disaster satellite image (Resourcesat-2) provided by ISRO

Post-disaster satellite image (KhalifaSat) provided by MBRSC(2) Earthquake in western Xinjiang, China, on 22 January, 2024 (GLIDE Number EQ-2024000004-CHN)
CBS News reported that a magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck a sparsely populated part of China’s
western Xinjiang region on 22 January, injuring six people, two with serious injuries and fourwith minor injuries. In addition, 47 houses collapsed, 78 were damaged, and some agricultural
structures collapsed.
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/earthquake-china-xinjiang-region/
The Institute of Geology, China Earthquake Administration (IGCEA) made an EOR to Sentinel
Asia on 23 January. Among DPNs, JAXA, TASA, and ISRO provided data. Information on thelatest response by Sentinel Asia is available at the link below.
https://sentinel-asia.org/EO/2024/article20240122CN.html

Post-disaster satellite image (ALOS-2) provided by JAXA

Post-disaster satellite image (CARTOSAT-2E) provided by ISRO

Post-disaster satellite image (FORMOSAT-5) provided by TASA* - * - * - * - *- * - * - * - * - * - *- * - * - * - * - * - *2. [Report] Sentinel Asia Annual Report 2022 has been published!
Sentinel Asia’s activity report for 2022 has been published. The report features, among others,(i) a detailed review on EORs conducted in 2022 including good practices; (ii) external
relations such as news, publications, and reports on conferences; and (iii) an analytical surveyof Sentinel Asia’s operations.
In 2022, as in previous years, the Joint Project Team Meeting (JPTM) of Sentinel Asia wasforced to be called off due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this regard, this Annual Reportprovided JPT members with an alternative opportunity to report their Sentinel Asia-related
activities, which would have been provided as part of the JPTM. In response to the invitationby the Sentinel Asia secretariat team, 21 JPT members contributed their activity reports, which
are in the Appendix of the Annual Report.
The Annual Report is available on the Sentinel Asia web page athttps://sentinel-asia.org/reports/Reports/SA_Annual_Report_2022.pdf* - * - * - * - *- * - * - * - * - * - *- * - * - * - * - * - *3. [Interview] Mr. Abdullah Muhammad Mustofa Sorwar, Bangladesh Water Development Board(BWDB)
Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) is the leading water resources management
organization in Bangladesh. They are responsible for Flood Forecasting and Warning, Flood
Damage Assessment, etc. Its Central GIS Directorate has the responsibility to assess ex-postdamage due to floods. They became a member of Sentinel Asia's Joint Project Team (JPT) in May
2023.
Sentinel Asia secretariat interviewed Mr. Abdullah Muhammad Mustofa Sorwar, Superintending
Engineer at Central GIS Directorate of BWDB to introduce their activities.

Sentinel Asia Secretariat
The Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) participated in Sentinel Asia in May 2023.
Can you introduce your organization for our readers? In addition, please also introduce the sectionthat is the point of contact within BWDB.
Mr. Abdullah Muhammad Mustofa Sorwar
BWDB is a government organization that promotes the sustainable development of thecountry’s water resources through participatory water management, the improvement ofpeople’s socioeconomic conditions by ensuring food security through the development ofirrigation systems, and the protection of people’s lives and property through water-related
disaster management.
After the independence of Bangladesh, a former Entity called WAPDA (Water and Power
Development Authority) was restructured in 1972 into two different organizations to deal withwater and power separately. As such BWDB was created under the Bangladesh Water andPower Development Boards Order 1972 (P.O. No. 59 of 1972) as a fully autonomous
organization. As the principal agency of the government for managing water resources of thecountry it was given the responsibility of accomplishing the tasks of executing flood control,
drainage and irrigation projects to increase productivity in agriculture and fisheries.
Reformed under the BWDB Act, 2000, BWDB has since been managed by a Governing
Council with 13 members headed by the Minister, Ministry of Water Resources.
Vision of BWDB is:- Sustainable development of water resources in Bangladesh through participatory water
management- Protection of people’s lives and property through water-related disaster management- Improvement of socio-economic condition of the people by ensuring food security throughirrigation system development
And its Mission is:- Flood control under strategic planning- Development of drainage and irrigation systems- Food security and alleviation of poverty- Prevention of river erosion- Addressing salinity intrusion problem- Land reclamation- Management of water-related disasters- Addressing the adverse effects of climate change in line with integrated coastalmanagement- Increasing public engagement through people’s participation in integrated water resource
management
The Central GIS Directorate of BWDB is the point of contact/focal point for Sentinel Asia
within BWDB. This office made its debut in December 2020 with just one official. Now, with

four engineers and three support staff, we are continuing our journey in the field of GIS/RS
and mathematical modelling. Every now and then, requests from various offices come to us
for mapping service, catchment delineation, morphological planform analysis, erosion
prediction, and so on. During floods, we prepare flood extent maps from freely available
satellite imagery including what are received from Sentinel Asia. We have sophisticatedhardware and software resources for image analysis and GIS mapping. Recently we havereceived water modelling software from DHI and we have implemented a license server towhich BWDB Design and Planning offices connect and use this tool as a decision support
system. We also set up our own GIS portal (https://gis.bwdb.gov.bd/arcgis/home) and website(https://gis.bwdb.gov.bd).
Sentinel Asia Secretariat
What is the reason of your participation to Sentinel Asia?
Mr. Abdullah Muhammad Mustofa Sorwar
Sentinel Asia is an important platform for accessing near real-time satellite data, enhancing
our ability to monitor and respond to water-related disasters promptly.
The motivation behind BWDB’s involvement in Sentinel Asia is to improve our capacity fordisaster management by using advanced technologies and to promote global cooperation.
Several key reasons for our active engagement with Sentinel Asia are as follows:- Sentinel Asia provides access to near real-time satellite data and imagery throughEmergency Observation Requests (EORs), which help us monitor and assess water-related
disasters promptly. This is crucial for timely decision-making and effective response
during emergencies.
- Participation in Sentinel Asia enhances our early-warning systems by integrating satellite
data for more accurate and timely disaster forecasts. This approach will allow us to better
prepare and mobilize resources, minimizing the impact of disasters on communities.
- Collaborating with Sentinel Asia enables BWDB to stay up to date with technologicalinnovation in disaster response. The platform offers cutting-edge tools and value-added
products that enhance our situational awareness and decision-making capabilities.
- Participation in Sentinel Asia contributes to the continuous professional development of
our team. Engaging with the platform helps our personnel to acquire new skills, stay
informed about the latest advancements in satellite technology, and improve our overall
disaster management capacity.
Sentinel Asia Secretariat
How is your participation in Sentinel Asia recognized within BWDB and other agencies in yourgovernment?
Mr. Abdullah Muhammad Mustofa Sorwar
The recognition of BWDB’s participation in Sentinel Asia is widespread within ourorganization. The significance of our involvement is acknowledged through several key
aspects:---

Our strategic participation in Sentinel Asia aligns with our vision of sustainable waterrelated disaster management, utilizing satellite technology and international
collaboration to stay at the leading position of disaster response capabilities.
Participation in Sentinel Asia offers benefits like near real-time data, early-warning
systems and improved decision-making, enhancing disaster management capacities andoperational effectiveness.
Our participation in Sentinel Asia promotes collaboration with other agencies. The
collaboration is appreciated within the government, as it aligns with broader efforts topromote coordination among agencies involved in disaster management, satellite
technology, and related fields.

Sentinel Asia Secretariat
The BWDB’s vision includes “Protection of people’s lives and property through water-related
disaster management”. Could you tell us about your activities for this purpose?
Mr. Abdullah Muhammad Mustofa Sorwar
The Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) is dedicated to fulfilling its vision of“Protection of people’s lives and property through water-related disaster management”
through structural and non-structural interventions. Some key activities include:- For non-structural interventions, BWDB operates and maintains early-warning systems
to provide timely alerts to communities at risk of water-related disasters such as floods
and cyclones. These systems incorporate near real-time data, including informationfrom satellite sources, to ensure swift and accurate notifications to vulnerable
populations.
- For structural interventions, BWDB is involved in the construction of embankments,
river bank protection works, and drainage systems to control water flow, prevent
flooding, and protect communities and agricultural lands from the adverse effects ofexcessive water.
- The BWDB conducts training programs to enhance the preparedness of BWDB
officials. This includes the development of response plans, coordination mechanisms,
and the pre-positioning of resources to ensure swift and effective responses during
emergencies.
- The BWDB is actively involved in research and innovation to stay ahead of emerging
challenges in water-related disaster management. This includes exploring newtechnologies, such as satellite remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS)
to improve the accuracy of risk assessments and response strategies.
- Collaboration with international organizations, including participation in initiatives like
Sentinel Asia, allows BWDB to access global expertise, share best practices, and benefit
from advanced technologies. This collaborative approach strengthens the organization’s
capacity to manage water-related disasters effectively.
Sentinel Asia Secretariat
To realize this vision, what do you expect from satellite remote sensing?

Mr. Abdullah Muhammad Mustofa Sorwar
Satellite remote sensing plays a crucial role in helping BWDB realize its vision of“Protection of people’s lives and property through water-related disaster management.” The
expectations from satellite remote sensing include the following key aspects:- Satellite remote sensing provides near real-time and high-resolution data on weather
patterns, precipitation, and so on. This information is vital for early-warning systems,
enabling BWDB to anticipate and respond to potential water-related disasters such as
floods and cyclones. Timely and accurate forecasts contribute to effective disaster
preparedness and evacuation planning.
- After a disaster event, satellite imagery facilitates rapid damage assessment. This
information is crucial for understanding the extent of the impact, identifying affectedareas, and prioritizing response efforts.
- Satellite and remote sensing data helps to create detailed maps, including flood extent
mapping and identification of areas prone to erosion. This information helps in land-use
planning, infrastructure development, and the identification of high-risk vulnerable areas,
which contributes to long-term disaster risk reduction.
- Satellite remote sensing data serves as a valuable resource for research and modelling
activities such as hydrological modelling, flood forecasting. By integrating satellite data
into these models, BWDB can enhance its understanding of water-related processes andimprove the accuracy of predictions.
- Integration of satellite remote sensing into disaster management efforts facilitatesinternational collaboration. Participating in Sentinel Asia allows BWDB to share
information, access data from neighboring regions, and collaborate with other countries
facing similar challenges. This approach enhances the effectiveness of disaster response
strategies.
Sentinel Asia Secretariat
In addition to BWDB, the Bangladesh Space Research and Remote Sensing Organization(SPARSSO) is another member of Sentinel Asia. Do you have any cooperation with them? If
so, could you introduce some cases?
Mr. Abdullah Muhammad Mustofa Sorwar
There is always a scope of exchange of views between BWDB and SPARRSO, as both aregovernment organizations. BWDB officials sometimes participate in the workshops ofresearch projects carried out by SPARRSO that are in line with BWDB interests. Previously,
BWDB and SPARRSO officials jointly participated in some capacity-building mini projects
with collaboration from Sentinel Asia and JAXA. With the help of the membership in
Sentinel Asia, a collaboration between BWDB and SPARSSO is possible in processing
satellite imagery provided by Sentinel Asia for disaster management.
Sentinel Asia Secretariat
You sent an Emergency Observation Request (EOR) to Sentinel Asia for Cyclone MOCHA lastMay. How were data and Value Added Products (VAPs) provided by Sentinel Asia used by theagencies in Bangladesh? If you have any lessons learned, could you share them?

Mr. Abdullah Muhammad Mustofa Sorwar
The high-resolution satellite imagery provided by Sentinel Asia was important in conducting
damage assessment in the aftermath of Cyclone MOCHA. The imagery facilitated a quick
and comprehensive overview of the affected areas, helping us to identify the extent ofdamage to infrastructure, residential areas, and agricultural land. The satellite imagery andValue Added Products (VAPs) were used to identify priority areas that required immediate
attention and intervention.
Lessons Learned is that EOR to Sentinel Asia for Cyclone MOCHA shows the value ofsatellite data in disaster response. One lesson learned was the importance of timely datadelivery. While the data received from Sentinel Asia was invaluable, there were instancessuch as during a flash flood in the city of Sylhet, Bangladesh in 2022 where even faster
access to information could have further improved the initial response. The experience also
aids in ongoing capacity building for more effective and efficient disaster management.
Sentinel Asia Secretariat
What do you think of the benefits of Sentinel Asia?
Mr. Abdullah Muhammad Mustofa Sorwar
The benefits of Sentinel Asia for BWDB and other agencies involved in disaster managementin Bangladesh are substantial. Some key benefits of Sentinel Asia are:- Sentinel Asia provides timely access to satellite data and imagery through EORs, enabling
rapid response to natural disasters. This information is crucial for identifying the extent ofdamage to infrastructure, residential areas, and agricultural land and effective decisionmaking during emergencies.
- By leveraging Sentinel Asia, BWDB can enhance its disaster preparedness efforts. The
platform provides valuable insights into potential risks, allowing for proactive measures
such as pre-positioning of resources, evacuation planning, and the implementation of
preventive measures.
- Sentinel Asia offers access to high-resolution satellite imagery, which is essential for
detailed damage assessment and identification of high-risk prone vulnerable areas forintervention.
- Participation in Sentinel Asia provides BWDB with exposure to global best practices insatellite-based disaster management. Knowledge sharing and collaboration with othermember countries contribute to the adoption of innovative approaches, enhancing
continuous improvement in disaster response strategies.
- Sentinel Asia offers opportunities for capacity building through training programs,
workshops, and collaborative projects. This enables BWDB personnel to enhance theirskills in satellite image interpretation, data analysis, and the utilization of advanced
technologies for disaster.
- Sentinel Asia encourages the adoption of innovative technologies for disastermanagement. BWDB can continuously improve its capabilities by keeping in touch with
Sentinel Asia, ensuring a more resilient and adaptive approach to water-related disasters.

Sentinel Asia Secretariat
Are there any challenges such as water-related disaster management or socio-economic
conditions in your country that could be solved by Sentinel Asia or other satellite technologies?
Mr. Abdullah Muhammad Mustofa Sorwar
Bangladesh faces several challenges related to water-related disaster management and socioeconomic conditions. And obviously satellite technologies offered by Sentinel Asia cancontribute significantly to addressing these challenges. Some of the key challenges and how
satellite technologies can help are as follows:- Bangladesh is prone to monsoon flooding and flash flooding, which poses a significant
threat to lives, property, and agriculture. Satellite technologies provide near real-time dataon rainfall, river levels, and flood extent. This information aids in early warning, flood
monitoring, and the development of flood models for better preparedness and response.
- Cyclones and storm surges are common in the southern part of Bangladesh, posing aserious risk to coastal areas. Satellite data assists in tracking cyclones, predicting theirpaths, and assessing storm surge potential. This information supports evacuation planning,
resource allocation, and early warning dissemination to vulnerable coastal communities.
- Riverbank erosion is a recurring issue, impacting communities and agricultural land.
Satellite imagery helps monitor morphological changes in river courses, identify erosionprone areas, etc. This information aids in land-use planning and the development ofstrategies to mitigate the impacts of erosion.
- Agriculture is a key sector, and ensuring food security is a priority. Satellite imagery data
aids in crop monitoring, yield prediction, and early detection of issues affecting
agricultural productivity.
- Ensuring the conservation of natural resources is crucial. Satellite technologies contributeto environmental monitoring, allowing for the assessment of deforestation, changes inland cover, and the impact of climate change.
Sentinel Asia Secretariat
What are your expectations of and how do you cooperate with Sentinel Asia?
Mr. Abdullah Muhammad Mustofa Sorwar
As a member of Sentinel Asia, we have specific expectations and a cooperative approach:- We expect Sentinel Asia to continue providing timely and reliable satellite data, especiallyduring emergency situations such as cyclones, floods, and other water-related disasters.
We will actively participate in the data-sharing network and promptly submit EORs whennecessary.
- We look forward to the continued development and availability of advanced technologies
and VAPs that enhance the usefulness of satellite data for disaster management. We will
actively engage in testing and providing feedback on new technologies and VAPs. This
includes participating in training programs and workshops organized by Sentinel Asia tobuild the capacity of our personnel in utilizing these tools effectively.
- We anticipate opportunities for collaborative research and development projects that

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utilize satellite data for innovative solutions in disaster management. We actively seek
collaboration with other member countries and organizations within the Sentinel Asia
network to undertake joint projects. This collaborative approach fosters the exchange ofknowledge, expertise, and best practices.
We expect continued support for capacity-building initiatives that enhance the skills of ourpersonnel in satellite image interpretation, data analysis, and the application of satellite
technologies. We will actively participate in capacity-building programs organized by
Sentinel Asia. This includes training sessions, workshops, and knowledge-sharing events
to ensure that our team remains well-equipped with the latest skills and knowledge.
We expect efficient and responsive support in processing EORs submitted during
emergency situations. We will cooperate closely by providing detailed EORs, specifying
the information needed, and collaborating with other member countries to ensure a swift
and coordinated response to emerging disaster situations.
We expect the continued evolution of the platform to meet the dynamic challenges ofwater-related disasters. We will remain committed to contributing and benefitting from thecollaborative efforts within the Sentinel Asia community.

- * - * - * - * - *- * - * - * - * - * - *- * - * - * - * - * - *4. How to send an Emergency Observation Request
JPT member organizations are entitled to send an Emergency Observation Request (EOR) for
disasters in the Asia-Pacific region. Please refer to https://sentinel-asia.org/elearning/Emergency_Observation_Request.html
EOR Order Desk:
Asian Disaster Reduction Center (ADRC)
HP: http://www.adrc.asia/
E-mail: sarequest@adrc.asia
FAX: +81-78-262-5546,
TEL: +81-78-262-5540- * - * - * - * - * - *- * - * - * - * - * - *- * - * - * - * - * - *5. Using Sentinel Asia Operation System, OPTEMIS
Sentinel Asia launched a new operation system, OPTEMIS. Please refer to the website on how tocreate an account for OPTEMIS.
https://sentinel-asia.org/e-learning/Emergency_Observation_Request.html+===+===+===+===+===+===+===+===+===+===+===+===+===+===+===+===+=

Copyright 2023 the Sentinel Asia Secretariat
Sentinel Asia Project OfficeSatellite Applications and Operations Center (SAOC)
Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)
Ochanomizu Sola City, 4-6 Kandasurugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-8008 Japan
E-mail: Z-SENTINEL.ASIA@ml.jaxa.jp