Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has ordered the authorities concerned to keep 100,000 volunteers ready in Dhaka to deal with any potential earthquake situation. Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu disclosed this while talking to reporters at the Secretariat on Sunday after a meeting with the Prime Minister.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the minister said the Prime Minister gave several instructions in view of the recent increase in earthquake incidents. ‘He (PM) has instructed us to prepare 100,000 volunteers in Dhaka city following the same model we have in the coastal areas,’ Dulu said.
The minister mentioned that the Prime Minister also directed the authorities to identify open spaces, including playgrounds and schools in Dhaka, to relocate people during emergencies. Additionally, there was a directive for the ministry to ensure quick procurement of necessary equipment and to collaborate with other ministries to build public awareness.
‘We will work on these issues and sit again on the 11th to review the follow-up,’ the minister added. When questioned about the country’s rescue capacity during a major earthquake, Dulu stated that the discussions were aimed at capacity building. ‘So far, the equipment we have procured has been handed over to the Armed Forces Division and some to the Fire Service,’ he said.
On the topic of long-term disaster management planning, the minister revealed that a 180-day plan is in place. ‘We will implement whatever falls within our jurisdiction,’ he added. Regarding the removal of risky high-rise or vulnerable buildings in high-risk zones under Rajuk, Dulu confirmed that it is within their purview. ‘Where it involves the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, we coordinate and work together,’ he said.