We are concerned about the lack of preparedness by relevant government agencies to face a major earthquake in Dhaka, despite warnings that it is one of the riskiest cities in the world. According to the Earthquake Disaster Risk Index, Dhaka tops the list of the 20 most vulnerable cities globally. The occurrence of two recent earthquakes within a week has heightened concerns about whether we are taking this threat seriously. Fortunately, neither the January 3 earthquake originating in Myanmar nor the January 7 one in Tibet (with a magnitude of 7.1) directly affected Dhaka. However, researchers indicate that a major quake could strike the city at any moment. We have no time to remain ill-prepared for this dreadful prospect.

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What if an earthquake of 6.9 magnitude hits Dhaka?

Research highlights that the Indo-Burma subduction zone, encompassing Sylhet and Chattogram, is accumulating strain capable of generating a significant seismic event of up to magnitude 8, which is alarming. Additionally, the Dauki Fault is another highly active seismic zone. Over the past decade, the region has experienced 550 earthquakes of magnitude 4 or higher. Experts warn that these smaller tremors could be precursors to a larger earthquake potentially devastating Dhaka.

Unfortunately, despite experiencing minor tremors over the years, our response has been minimal. Dense urbanisation and poorly enforced building codes naturally put Dhaka at high risk of catastrophic damage in the event of a major earthquake. Its geological location, combined with human and economic factors, exacerbates this vulnerability. According to a recent RAJUK study, an earthquake of 6.9 magnitude, along the Madhupur Faultline near Dhaka, could demolish about 865,000 buildings. If such an event occurs during the day, around 210,000 people could die, with another 229,000 injured. The financial loss would also be immense, estimated at $25 billion, with an additional $44 billion required for rebuilding.

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We need to be ready for earthquakes

Therefore, the government must take decisive action to mitigate these risks. Immediate steps should include extensive mass awareness campaigns, regular earthquake drills, disaster education for children, volunteer training, and coordination between government and non-governmental agencies for rescue operations. In the long term, it is critical to strictly enforce the National Building Code and demolish the risky buildings. Given Dhaka's increasing vulnerability, we can no longer afford to remain oblivious or inactive.