Dhaka: Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu today announced that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has instructed relevant authorities to ensure that volunteers based in Dhaka are prepared for a potential earthquake.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Minister shared this information with journalists following a meeting with the Prime Minister at the Secretariat this morning. The Prime Minister’s directives come in the wake of recent earthquakes in various locations last month, emphasizing the need for readiness in Dhaka.
The Prime Minister has also urged the development of a response model similar to those used in coastal areas. This includes identifying playgrounds and schools in Dhaka city as assembly points during emergencies. Additionally, instructions were given to expedite the procurement of necessary equipment and to collaborate with other ministries to raise awareness.
Asadul Habib Dulu stated that the government plans to address these directives and will hold a follow-up meeting on the 11th of this month. Discussions on capability building were also part of the meeting, with some equipment requests already submitted to the Armed Forces Division and others allocated to the Fire Service and Civil Defence.
The Minister further mentioned that a national council exists to advise on disaster management, where detailed discussions on earthquake preparedness will take place.