Maya rules out likelihood of mega-quake

Relief and Disaster Management Minister Mofazzal Hossain Chowdhury Maya yesterday in parliament ruled out the possibility of a high magnitude earthquake in Bangladesh considering its 200 years history.

The minister also called upon all to not to get panicked in this regard.

Dhaka, one of the most densely populated cities in the world, sits on top of a fault buried under thick sediments, which could trigger a massive earthquake, a new study suggests.

The magnitude of the earthquake could be 8.2 to 9 and cause severe damage. At least 140 million people living in the region -- Bangladesh, eastern India and parts of Myanmar -- could be affected, according to the study.

The researchers, however, could not say when the earthquake would occur -- whether it is imminent or would occur after 100 years.

The findings were published in the journal Nature Geoscience on Monday and are making international headlines.

A ruling Awami League MP during the question hour asked the minister about his ministry's preparation if a high magnitude earthquake as concerned in the recent study takes place.

In reply, Maya said by the grace of Allah, there is no possibility of a high magnitude earthquake, like 9 on the Richter Scale, striking the country as mentioned in the study.

Bangladesh did not see any earthquake at a magnitude of more than eight in the last 200 years, he said.

“And if any 9 magnitude earthquake finally takes place, it will also destroy the entire world,” added the minister.

He also said there is no equipment or technology that has been invented so far by which the possibility of an earthquake can be detected in advance. “I will therefore urge all to not to panic. The government has the capability of tackling a situation which might be created by an earthquake.”

In reply to another query, Maya said 192 people died so far this year in lightning across the country.

The minister also said the government has recently announced lightning as a natural disaster and has been giving Tk 20,000 to Tk 25,000 to the deceased family members.

Besides, Tk 5,000 to 15,000 is being given for treating a wounded person in this regard.

In reply to a supplementary question, Maya informed the House that a “devastating” flood may hit the country in between July to September this year.

"We're getting forecast that a big flood is likely to strike during the July-September period this year," he said, adding that the government is taking preparation to face the possible flood.