🌍 Earthquake in Dhaka: How Prepared Are We for the Next Big One?
Did you know Dhaka sits on a tectonic time bomb, with scientists warning that a major earthquake could strike at any moment?
Despite rapid urbanization and a growing population, the city’s infrastructure remains highly vulnerable. In this article, we’ll explore why earthquakes are a real threat to Dhaka, what steps have been taken (or not taken), and how you can protect yourself and your loved ones. Let’s dig in.
Table of Contents
1. Understanding Dhaka’s Earthquake Risk
Dhaka lies near the boundary of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates — a collision zone that has historically generated powerful earthquakes.
Key Facts:
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Bangladesh is surrounded by fault lines, including the Dauki Fault and the Main Frontal Thrust.
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The Seismic Zonation Map of Bangladesh classifies Dhaka in Zone 2, meaning moderate to high seismic risk.
🔗 Read more about Bangladesh’s seismic zoning
2. Why Dhaka is Vulnerable
Rapid Urbanization Without Planning
Dhaka’s unplanned growth has led to:
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High-rise buildings built without earthquake-resistant designs
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Overcrowded neighborhoods with narrow escape routes
Poor Building Codes Enforcement
Though building codes exist, enforcement is weak. A 2015 study revealed that over 80% of buildings in Dhaka are not compliant with seismic standards.
🔗 How vulnerable is Dhaka? – The Daily Star
3. Past Earthquakes: Warnings We Ignored
Notable Quakes:
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1897 Great Indian Earthquake (Magnitude 8.1): Felt strongly in Dhaka.
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2004 Indian Ocean Earthquake: Created panic in the capital.
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2022 Sylhet Tremors: A wake-up call for urban planners.
Despite these warning signs, preparedness remains dangerously low.
4. What to Do Before, During, and After an Earthquake
🛠 Before
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Retrofit your building if possible.
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Anchor heavy furniture.
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Prepare an emergency kit with food, water, flashlight, and documents.
🔥 During
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Drop, Cover, and Hold On under sturdy furniture.
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Stay away from windows and heavy objects.
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Do not use elevators.
🚪 After
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Evacuate only when safe.
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Check for injuries and structural damage.
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Stay tuned to emergency broadcasts.
📘 Related: How to Prepare for Natural Disasters in South Asia
5. Government Efforts and Challenges
Positive Steps:
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The Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC) includes seismic safety.
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Awareness campaigns by Fire Service & Civil Defence.
Challenges:
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Corruption in construction approvals
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Low public awareness
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Inadequate emergency response capacity
🔗 BNBC Overview (Government PDF)
Conclusion
Dhaka may be beautiful and booming, but it’s also balancing on a geological edge. The next big earthquake isn’t a question of if — it’s when. While the government must enforce regulations, personal preparedness is your best defense.
Don’t wait for a tragedy to take action.
✅ Call to Action
Have you taken any earthquake safety steps?
👇 Let us know in the comments below.
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📤 Share this article to spread awareness — it could save a life.
FAQ
Is Dhaka in an earthquake-prone area?
Yes. Dhaka lies near major fault lines and is classified in Seismic Zone 2.
How likely is a big earthquake in Dhaka?
Experts say there is a high probability in the next few decades, though the exact timing is unknown.
What should I keep in an earthquake emergency kit?
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Bottled water
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Canned food
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Flashlight & batteries
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First-aid kit
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Copies of important documents
