The recent earthquakes that originated in Rupganj and other parts of central Bangladesh have once again drawn public attention to the country's seismic vulnerability. Given their proximity to Dhaka, experts emphasise the need for greater preparedness.
Dhaka, one of the world's most densely populated megacities, has expanded rapidly over the past few decades, often without adequate regard for urban planning and structural safety. Tens of thousands of buildings have been constructed in violation of building regulations, while enforcement mechanisms remain weak. The presence of ageing structures, unauthorised extensions and inadequate compliance with engineering standards has heightened concerns about the city's resilience to a major seismic event.
Studies conducted over the years have repeatedly warned that a powerful earthquake could result in widespread structural failures, causing significant loss of life and severe economic disruption. In such a scenario, emergency response efforts alone would be insufficient to mitigate the scale of the devastation. The most effective disaster-management strategy, therefore, is not merely response, but prevention and preparedness.
Unfortunately, Bangladesh's disaster management framework has traditionally placed greater emphasis on post-disaster relief and recovery than on risk reduction. While the country has earned international recognition for its achievements in cyclone preparedness and flood management, earthquake readiness remains a comparatively neglected area. This imbalance must be addressed before a major disaster exposes its consequences.
Ensuring urban resilience requires a coordinated and sustained effort. Strict enforcement of the Bangladesh National Building Code must be treated as a priority. Vulnerable structures should be identified and retrofitted where necessary, while illegal and unsafe construction practices must face stronger regulatory action. At the same time, scientific assessments of seismic risks should be incorporated into urban development planning and infrastructure projects.
Equally important is the cultivation of public awareness. Regular earthquake drills in schools, universities, hospitals, offices and residential communities can significantly improve emergency preparedness. Citizens must be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively during and after a seismic event. Preparedness is most effective when it becomes part of a society's collective culture rather than a temporary reaction to isolated incidents.
The reality is that earthquakes cannot be prevented. What can be prevented, however, is the scale of human and economic loss that often follows them. The well-known observation that earthquakes do not kill people but unsafe buildings do -- remains a powerful reminder of where policy attention should be directed.
Mysha Siddika
Student
University of Dhaka
