3 army units to tackle quake crisis

The government has decided to form three separate teams within the Bangladesh Army to make the post-earthquake search and rescue operation quick and effective.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday announced the plans to deal with possible calamities after any strong earthquake at the equipment handing over ceremony at 14 Independent Engineer Brigade Training Ground to the Armed Forces Division, Fire Service, City Corporation and Coast Guard.
The three teams -- heavy, medium and light -- will be formed from the engineering corps, artillery, infantry and others considering their work ability and assets.
The prime minister said these teams would be provided with equipment and training for better operation.
Food and Disaster Management Minister Muhammad Abdur Razzaque presided over the function addressed among others by Home Minister Sahara Khatun and Army Chief Gen M Abdul Mubeen.
Referring to the past rescue operations, Hasina said, “We have opted for procuring modern and effective rescue equipment as the present equipment is not sufficient to tackle any big disaster.”
She said most of the multi-storied buildings in the country are not constructed in compliance with the building code to absorb the earthquake.
The prime minister urged all concerned to strengthen their coordinated efforts in extending emergency services to the people hit by natural disasters.