Dhaka: Dhaka is currently at earthquake risk as it has already been over one hundred years since a major tremor struck Bangladesh in 1918. As one of the world’s most densely populated cities, Dhaka is alarmingly ill-prepared to face any such disaster.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dhaka is more vulnerable to earthquakes due to its geological location, and human and economic exposure, said Rubyet Kabir, meteorologist and deputy project director of Bangladesh Weather and Climate Services Regional Project. The earthquake disaster risk index places Dhaka at the top of the list of the 20 most vulnerable cities in the world, he added.
Experts noted that a major earthquake usually occurs every 100 years. The last significant earthquakes on the Madhupur fault took place in 1822 and 1918, indicating Bangladesh is on the verge of another major earthquake. Despite various projects aimed at reducing the risk, many have not been fully realized, Rubyet stated.
According to the Earth Observatory Center report, Bangladesh’s location at the junction of three tectonic plates-Indian, Eurasian, and Burmese-increases the country’s risk. A joint survey by the Integrated Disaster Management Programme and JICA in 2009 predicted that about 72,000 buildings in Dhaka would collapse, and 135,000 would be damaged if an earthquake of 7 magnitude or higher struck. Seventy million tons of concrete could accumulate.
Fire Service and Civil Defense sources revealed that 76 percent of Dhaka’s roads are narrow, complicating rescue operations during an earthquake. Additionally, 60 percent of buildings have been constructed with altered designs, raising concerns about their structural integrity in a major quake. Potential explosions in gas, electricity, and water lines could exacerbate the situation.
Rubyet Kabir highlighted that the number of risky buildings in Dhaka is increasing, along with the risk of earthquake disasters. Most structures are not built to withstand high-level jolts. Preparedness efforts have been limited to acquiring some fire extinguishing equipment with government funds.
Rajuk has initiated the Urban Resilience Project to monitor building earthquake resistance and implement necessary measures. This project tests the earthquake resistance of selected government offices, schools, and hospitals. While earthquakes cannot be prevented, Rubyet Kabir emphasized that preparedness can mitigate damage. Identifying vulnerable buildings and making them earthquake-resistant is crucial, along with training volunteers and preparing the public for potential disasters.