An earthquake anywhere in the world reminds us of the vulnerability of our country to quake. Earthquake seems to have become more frequent these days as it jolted different countries within the short span of time. The Tuesday-night quake in the Philippines warns us that our preparations are too inadequate to face such a disaster.
Bangladesh experienced its third and mild earthquake in September. No damage was reported. Recently several small tremors have been felt in Bangladesh. And it is a relief that no harm had been reported in the country due to quake. However, there is no reason for relief, as such events are occurring repeatedly within a month. Experts believe that such earthquakes could be an early warning for a major one in the future. But if we do not pay any heed, we may be taken off-guard. Nature is warning us again and again, but we prefer to remain careless. As a result, the fear of massive damage is looming over us.
According to various international surveys and studies, Bangladesh is located in an earthquake prone region, where the possibility of major earthquake is very strong. Bangladesh lies at the intersection of the Indian, Eurasian, and Myanmar tectonic plates. Geological experts identify the region as a seismic Zone. According to the UNDP and the Geological survey Directorate, the risk of earthquakes is the highest in Dhaka, Chattogram, Sylhet and Mymensingh. Majority of the ramshackle buildings, particularly in old city are not earthquake- resistant. In the event of a magnitude 6.5 earthquake at least 2,000 buildings will collapse in Dhaka city. At least 200,000 people could be killed, and 100 million people may suffer damage. According to the US Geological survey (USGS), small earthquakes are the indicator of a large earthquake. Similar small earthquakes where felt before the major earthquake in Nepal in 2015.
An earthquake is a natural disaster which cannot be prevented. What we can do at best is to raise awareness and take precautionary measures to minimize the damage. We have big deficiencies in earthquake preparedness. Construction of building must strictly comply with the Bangladesh National Building Code. Seismic stations need to be increased with advanced technology. Earthquake research should be enhanced in collaboration with international research institutes. Civil defense personnel should be trained to use sophisticated technology and provide emergency services during rescue operations. Each region should have adequately prepared shelter centers in advance. New architects and engineers can play an important role in earthquake-resistant construction.
We must be vigilant as studies reveal that the tectonic pressure beneath the earth is gradually accumulating through micro-seismic activity. The energy that is stored is partially released through small earthquakes, but it does not reduce the risk of a big earthquake. Studies show that there has been no major earthquake in the region since long and this raises the risk of a major earthquake. Unplanned urbanization, dense population, and weak building structures have also increased the risk of earthquakes.
If proper planning and effective preparedness are not made a major earthquake in the future may be catastrophic for the country. The initiative must be taken right now to deal with future disaster and it does not brook any delay.
