Fire Service itself could be damaged if earthquake with magnitude 7 or more hits Dhaka, says DG
In a Nutshell:
- Fire Service DG warned that its own infrastructure could be affected if a major earthquake hits Dhaka.
- Fire Service has placed around 100 stations across Bangladesh under a response plan to send manpower and rescue equipment after a major quake. It has tested the plan through a dry exercise and is considering helicopters to transport small equipment and firefighters if needed.
Why it matters
A major earthquake in Dhaka could put Fire Service in a difficult position as it responds to widespread emergencies while also dealing with damage to its own facilities. If key infrastructure is affected, rescuers may struggle to reach people and manage multiple incidents at the same time. The concern is that a large-scale disaster could create more demand for rescue operations at a time when response capacity is already under pressure.
What we think
Fire Service’s warning highlights why earthquake preparedness cannot rely only on what happens after a disaster strikes. A city like Dhaka also needs stronger systems before an earthquake happens, from public awareness to building safety and emergency planning. Rescue teams can respond to damage, but reducing the impact of a major earthquake depends on how prepared the city is before the first tremor.
