PM orders one lakh volunteers on standby in Dhaka for earthquake response

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has ordered the authorities concerned to keep one lakh 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 today (1 March) after a meeting with the prime minister.

The minister said the prime minister gave several instructions in view of the recent increase in earthquake incidents. "He (PM Tarique Rahman) has instructed us to prepare one lakh volunteers in Dhaka city following the same model we have in the coastal areas," Dulu said.

The minister said the prime minister also directed the authorities to identify open spaces, including playgrounds and schools in Dhaka, to relocate people during emergencies.

The prime minister instructed the ministry to ensure quick procurement of necessary equipment and work with other ministries to build public awareness, he said.

"We will work on these issues and sit again on the 11th to review the follow-up," the minister added.

Asked about the country‍‍`s rescue capacity in the case of a major earthquake, Dulu said 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 long-term disaster management planning, the minister said there is a 180-day plan 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, the minister said, "Yes, it is within our purview. Where it involves the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, we coordinate and work together," he said.