The Fire Service and Civil Defense has warned that Bangladesh faces the possibility of an earthquake of similar magnitude to the powerful tremors that struck parts of Myanmar and Thailand on March 28.

The agency has urged nationwide preparedness to mitigate potential disaster.

Talha Bin Jasim, officer-in-charge of the Fire Service's media cell, provided this information on Saturday (March 30).

He said that Myanmar and Thailand experienced two significant earthquakes on March 28, measuring 7.7 and 6.4 on the Richter scale, respectively. 

The tremors caused considerable destruction, including loss of life. Bangladesh, particularly the regions of Chattogram, Sylhet, Mymensingh, and Dhaka, remains at high risk of a similar seismic event.

In response, the Fire Service and Civil Defense has outlined key precautionary measures to enhance preparedness and awareness at all levels:

1. Construct earthquake-resistant buildings in accordance with the Bangladesh National Building Code 2020.
2. Renovate and reinforce old and structurally vulnerable buildings.
3. Strengthen fire prevention systems in all multi-storey and commercial structures.
4. Ensure the safety of utility services, including gas, water, and electricity lines.
5. Conduct regular earthquake drills and awareness campaigns at individual and institutional levels.
6. Display emergency contact numbers for fire services, ambulances, police, and hospitals in all buildings.
7. Encourage community participation through volunteer training programs for disaster response.
8. Maintain emergency supplies, including flashlights, radios with extra batteries, whistles, hammers, helmets or cushions, dry food, clean water, essential medicines, and first aid kits in designated household locations.
9. Cooperate with relevant authorities to support disaster response efforts.

The Fire Service and Civil Defense has already initiated various preparedness activities across the country. 

Authorities emphasize that with collective vigilance and coordinated efforts, Bangladesh can minimize potential damage from a catastrophic earthquake.

For emergency assistance, contact the Fire Service and Civil Defense hotline at 102.

BDST: 1502 HRS, MAR 29, 2025
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