Yunus Urges Quick Written Plans on Earthquake Prep; Task Force to be Formed

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus convened an emergency meeting on earthquake preparedness at the Chief Adviser’s Office (CAO) in Tejgaon, following multiple earthquakes felt last Friday and Saturday. He urged top experts, researchers, and university professors present to provide written recommendations on the necessary governmental steps within the shortest possible time, affirming the government's readiness to take all required measures.

The Chief Adviser emphasized the need for immediate, scientific action, stating that work is underway to form the required expert committee and one or more taskforces. Operations will commence immediately upon receiving the written expert recommendations.

Experts stressed the importance of taking necessary precautionary measures instead of succumbing to panic over recent tremors. They addressed the rumors and misinformation circulating on social media regarding specific dates for a major earthquake, clarifying that while historical patterns can help estimate timeframes, specific dates and times cannot be predicted.

An evaluation of the country's current state of preparedness is necessary. Action plans must be developed and widely delivered at four levels, indoor, outdoor, individual, and institutional. Youth engagement is crucial for awareness efforts. Drills are essential, including in homes and educational institutions, after identifying open spaces and gathering points. Schools, colleges, and universities should launch earthquake-related programs to build awareness. Coordination with Bangladeshi scientists and earthquake experts abroad is advised, possibly leveraging the 'Shubhechha' app for connectivity and additional features.

Experts called for a review of earthquake sources and origins in and around Bangladesh to determine the potential shaking levels, though the probability of a major earthquake was deemed low (low seismicity region).

Ministries should assess installations under their jurisdiction, with special attention to hospitals, educational institutions, and utility connections (electricity/gas).

Hospitals need assessment for building quality, shortage capacity, and preparedness for emergency handling. The Public Works Department is already using software to collect images of buildings with cracks and has assessed over 200 buildings, with most cracks found in partition walls.

The meeting decided the government will quickly discuss the written recommendations and form a task force comprising government and private officials/experts for immediate action.