Morocco’s earthquake is another wake-up call

We express our deepest sorrow for the people of Morocco, who are undergoing the most excruciating times of pain, loss, and despair following the earthquake which has already taken more than 2,000 lives and left at least 1,404 people critically injured. The death toll is expected to rise as more bodies are retrieved. Rescuers are desperately searching for survivors in the rubble, while those who have survived are in a state of shock after watching their city collapse, along with the loss of their homes and loved ones. The earthquake, with a magnitude of 6.8, occurred mostly in Marrakech and five provinces near the epicentre.

The world has seen other major earthquakes recently. In February, earthquakes with magnitudes of 7.8 and 7.7 hit Turkiye and Syria, killing over 50,000 people and destroying 6,600 buildings.

As we know, earthquakes are virtually impossible to predict. But experts believe that the biggest factor in preventing deaths from earthquakes is building codes, and that by designing earthquake-safe buildings, we can save many lives. Japan, which has experienced severe earthquakes, has been diligently following this advice. Even though it is costly, all earthquake-prone countries should also adopt this practice.

In the case of Bangladesh, a study conducted by researchers from Dhaka University and Columbia University identified 13 areas that are at risk because of tectonic faults. Three districts of the Chittagong Hill Tracts and an upazila of Sylhet are at the greatest risk. The study revealed that an earthquake of magnitude 7 to 8 may also result in large-scale devastation in Dhaka city, which is besieged by unplanned construction of buildings. The construction of many multi-storied residential buildings on soft soil, in violation of building codes, increases the risk of collapse during a big earthquake. There are 2.1 million buildings in Dhaka, with 600,000 buildings being six-stories high or taller, according to BUET. Have the authorities identified how many of these buildings are risky or retrofitted them to make them safe?

Morocco's tragedy is yet another reminder for all countries that are at risk of earthquakes. Bangladesh needs to enhance the capacities of its fire departments, volunteers, trained personnel, and emergency medical services and create a national rescue strategy so that we can respond effectively if a disaster strikes.

As Morocco reels from this catastrophe, we express our deepest condolences to the bereaved families and urge the international community to provide logistical and financial support to the Moroccan people on an urgent basis.