14/08/2024
Japan declared a “MEGAQUAKE” after two earthquakes within a minute last Thursday.
In such a context, the question is , is Bangladesh safe?
The seismic risk in Bangladesh, as highlighted in the study conducted by researchers from Columbia University and Dhaka University and published in "Nature Geoscience" in 2016, presents a significant concern. The study warns that a powerful earthquake, with a magnitude ranging from 8.2 to 9 on the Richter scale, could strike Bangladesh, eastern India, and parts of Myanmar. This would affect an area of approximately 24,000 square kilometers, potentially endangering the lives of around 140 million people.
The underlying risk stems from the presence of large fault lines that cross these regions, making them susceptible to significant seismic activity. The fault lines, where tectonic plates meet, are areas of intense geological stress. When these stresses are released, they can cause devastating earthquakes.
Experts, including Akhtarul Ahsan from the Geological Survey of Bangladesh, emphasize the potential for a major earthquake in the region due to the energy stored within these fault lines. The exact magnitude and timing of such an event are uncertain, with estimates varying from 6 to above 8 on the Richter scale. However, the presence of this stored energy and the history of past seismic events in the region suggest that a significant earthquake is possible.
The comparison with Turkey's Eastern Anatolian Fault, where a history of major earthquakes exists, illustrates the gravity of the situation. The same geological processes that have caused destructive earthquakes in Turkey could similarly impact Bangladesh and its neighboring regions.
However, there is some debate among experts. Mehedi Ahmed Ansari, a professor at BUET, points out that the fault line identified in the study has not historically experienced major earthquakes. He argues that other fault lines, such as those near the Myanmar border, have been more active. This raises questions about the accuracy of predictions regarding where and how strong an earthquake might be in Bangladesh.
The region's unique geography, particularly the Ganges-Brahmaputra delta, adds to the complexity. This area is one of the most densely populated in the world, and the combination of dense population, vulnerable infrastructure, and potential for a major earthquake creates a scenario of extreme risk. Poor construction practices, such as the building of multi-story structures on unstable ground, exacerbate the potential damage.
In conclusion, while the precise timing and magnitude of an earthquake in Bangladesh remain uncertain, the risk is real and significant. The presence of multiple fault lines, the history of seismic activity in the region, and the dense population all contribute to the potential for a catastrophic event. Preparedness and rigorous enforcement of building codes are critical to mitigating the impact of any future earthquake in Bangladesh.
Source: Dhakatimes24
