Following earthquake-resistant building code

Earthquake is such a natural disaster that cannot be predicted. It can happen in a second. If it is powerful, there is no escape from its destruction. Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to earthquakes. So, preparations for minimising the damage must start from this moment. Dhaka city should be the centre of attention in this regard as it is one of the most susceptible cities. In the event of a major earthquake of 6.9 magnitudes, approximately 865,000 buildings are likely to collapse in Dhaka alone, according to a report prepared by the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha.

Many buildings in Dhaka city and elsewhere in the country are self-built by the people without any architectural and structural design. They are built taking advice from masons or contractors. These buildings can become death traps if a disaster strikes. Many multi-storey buildings in the capital city have been constructed flouting RAJUK's approved design. Also, they have been constructed without following any earthquake-resistant building code. Some of them have been constructed filling wetlands or lowlands for which the buildings constructed on the filled-up lands are vulnerable. If a building is not designed properly or constructed without proper piling it may fall during an earthquake. So, we urge the authorities concerned to form an earthquake-resistant building code that all buildings must follow when they are constructed.

Abu Elias Linkon,

Banasree, Dhaka,

lightening_sparkle@yahoo.com