The seismograph at Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU) has remained inoperative since its sensor went out of order over three years ago. 

The earthquake detection device, the lone one in the country's southern region, was set up at PSTU campus on May 27 in 2008 at a cost of about Tk one crore under a MoU between Dhaka University and Columbia University, USA, said Dr Humayun Akhter, professor of geology department of Dhaka University.

"The seismograph started functioning here in October 2010 under the supervision of geology department of Dhaka University and we got readings of two earthquakes from it," said Md Munibur Rahman, supervisor of the seismograph, also assistant professor of electric and electronics department of PSTU. 

"But in early 2012, its sensor went out of order, making the machine virtually inoperative as it fails to give any earthquake signal," he added.

"Seismograph works at three levels -- the sensor detects stimuli, the receiver receives it and the computer reads out and displays its intensity and distance. If any of the three components becomes inactive, its overall function virtually closes," said Md Jamal Hossain, assistant professor of computer science and information technology department of PSTU.

AKM Mostafa Zaman, dean of disaster management department of PSTU, said, "We are trying our best to restart the machine in view of its importance to reduce damage to life and property in case of earthquakes."