Published: 08:12 PM, 22 November 2025
The Earthquake That Warned Us Again
Masuma Moriom
The recent earthquakes that shook Bangladesh, including the main shock on twenty one November and the tremors that followed the next day, have once again reminded us of our deep and growing vulnerability. The first tremor was moderate in scientific terms, but the fear it spread through Dhaka and surrounding districts was intense and immediate. People rushed out of buildings, shops paused their activities and the usual quiet of a Friday morning was suddenly replaced with fear and confusion. The shaking lasted for only 26 seconds, yet the shock it generated revealed how unprepared we remain for an event that could be far stronger. The few deaths and the injuries reported in different districts remind us that even a moderate earthquake can cause harm when our surroundings are vulnerable. The tremors that occurred on Saturday further highlight that seismic activity in the region remains ongoing, reinforcing the urgent need for awareness and preparedness.
Bangladesh sits in one of the most active seismic zones in the world. Scientists and risk researchers have warned us for years that a major earthquake is not a question of possibility but a question of time. The recent shocks were centered close to Dhaka at a shallow depth which amplified the impact. Although this event did not cause widespread destruction, it made many people aware that our densely populated cities are at serious risk. Dhaka in particular carries a heavy burden of exposed structures. Rapid urban growth, old buildings, crowded settlements and weak construction practices all combine to create a dangerous situation. Every small crack is a quiet signal that the future incident of this kind could bring consequences far more severe.
In the last two decades we have experienced several minor and moderate earthquakes. Each time the tremor passes, public concern rises for a short period. Conversations start about safety, building codes and emergency response. Yet as days pass the sense of urgency fades. Life returns to routine and the lessons of the moment gradually fade away. This pattern continues year after year, leaving the country essentially in the same vulnerable position. The recent earthquake showed that the people of Bangladesh still do not know how to respond in a calm and safe way. Many ran down staircases which is one of the riskiest actions during a quake. Some crowded narrow exits. Others stopped on roads under electric wires. This behavior is not the fault of individuals. It is the result of a lack of proper awareness and training.
Dhaka is a megacity with millions of people living in multi-story buildings. Many of these buildings were not designed or strengthened to withstand strong shaking. Engineers and earthquake experts have repeatedly expressed concern that a large earthquake could cause extensive collapse. The consequences of a major event would stretch far beyond physical destruction. Hospitals would become overcrowded. Roads would be blocked. Emergency services would struggle to reach affected areas. The economic impact would be severe and long-lasting. Families would lose homes and livelihoods. The country would face an enormous humanitarian challenge. These are not distant or imaginary threats. They are real possibilities acknowledged by experts and government agencies.
Preparedness is the only defense against such a disaster. Strengthening buildings, enforcing construction rules and investing in safe urban planning are long term solutions. They require commitment, coordination and strict monitoring. There must be greater emphasis on strengthening old buildings used for schools, markets, hospitals and offices. These places carry the highest risks because they hold large numbers of people throughout the day. Authorities must also ensure that new buildings follow proper designs and use tested materials. Safety is not an extra cost, it is a necessary investment that protects lives and reduces future losses.
While structural measures are essential for long term safety, Bangladesh is at high risk and we cannot predict when the next shock will occur. This makes individual and community preparedness a must. Preparedness does not rely only on strengthening buildings, it also depends on people. Communities must learn simple but lifesaving actions. People need to know what to do the moment they feel shaking. During an earthquake, individuals should remain calm and move quickly to safe positions. Indoors, this involves taking cover under strong furniture, protecting the head and neck, and staying away from windows, doors, glass, cabinets and heavy objects. Elevators should be avoided. Outdoors, people should move to open safe spaces away from buildings, trees, electric poles and vehicles. Occupants of vehicles are advised to stop safely, avoiding bridges, underpasses and other potential hazards. Evacuation should be practiced only after the shaking stops and should be done in a calm and orderly way.
After the event, people should remain alert due to the possibility of aftershocks. Individuals should check gas, electricity and water lines, avoid entering damaged buildings and assist those injured, particularly children, the elderly and people with disabilities. Designated shelters should be used when necessary and first aid administered as required. These lessons must become part of regular education. Schools, offices and residential buildings should arrange drills. Public messages should be shared in clear and accessible language for all age groups.
The earthquakes that struck recently were frightening, but it also gave us an opportunity. It reminded us that danger does not always appear with warning. It urged us to see the weaknesses in our surroundings. It encouraged us to think about the safety of our families, neighbors, colleagues and communities. If we ignore this message, we will remain exposed. If we act on it, we will build a safer future for the entire nation.
This is the time to treat seismic risk as a national priority. Citizens must demand safer buildings. Developers must respect science and honesty in construction. Government agencies must monitor compliance and take firm action when they detect violations. Media outlets must continue to raise awareness. Schools and universities must integrate basic disaster knowledge into their lessons. Every person has a role to play. Safety is not the responsibility of a single authority. It is a shared duty that protects all of us.
The recent earthquakes of Bangladesh did not strike with full force, but it carried a powerful message. We should listen. We should prepare. And above all, we should learn. When the next event comes, our knowledge and our readiness will determine how many lives are saved. It is time for us to act with seriousness, responsibility and unity. Only then can we build a confident and resilient Bangladesh.
Masuma Moriom is a climate analyst and a disaster management professional.
