Earthquakes: Rajuk chairman flags 300 Dhaka buildings as ‘vulnerable’
Rajuk Chairman Riazul Islam today announced that approximately 300 small and large buildings in Dhaka have been identified as vulnerable following the recent earthquakes.
Speaking at a seminar titled "Preparedness and Actions to Reduce Earthquake Risks", organised by Rajuk at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB), Riazul said, "Following Friday's earthquake, we have been able to mark around 300 small and large vulnerable buildings. Both Rajuk and building owners share responsibility for constructions that violate rules and approved designs. However, the main responsibility lies with the building owners."
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"We approve building construction strictly following the rules. No work at Rajuk happens in exchange for money," he added.
He clarified that "Rajuk itself does not design building plans," adding, "house owners have their buildings designed by engineers or architects and submit the plans to Rajuk with the commitment of following Rajuk regulations. If they fail to follow those rules later, the penalties or punishments should go to the house owners. Rajuk cannot be held responsible for that."
Environmental and Water Resources Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan emphasised the need for urgent action, saying, "To minimise possible damage from major earthquakes, strong and integrated initiatives must be taken immediately. Not just Rajuk -- every related agency must work together. If necessary, the government's decision-making authority needs to be strengthened to take strict action regarding vulnerable buildings."
Housing and Public Works Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan said, "Without coordinated steps from government agencies alongside public preparedness, earthquake risk cannot be reduced. There can be no negligence when it comes to public safety."
Buet earthquake and disaster management experts Dr Mehedi Ahmed Ansary and Dr Tanvir Manzur presented papers highlighting Dhaka's weak soil, unregulated construction, failure to comply with building codes, and structural vulnerabilities, warning these factors could cause massive damage if a major earthquake strikes the capital.
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