Published: 12:43 AM, 24 November 2025
Seminar on "Earthquake Risk and its Mitigation in Urban Areas of BD" held at UIU
The Department of Civil Engineering of United International University (UIU) organized a seminar titled "Earthquake Risk and its Mitigation in Urban Areas of Bangladesh" on November 22, 2025 at United International University- UIU Campus, United City, Madani Avenue, Dhaka.
Prof. Dr. Mehedi Ahmed Ansari, Dept. of Civil Engineering and Founder Director, BUET-Japan Institute of Disaster Prevention and Urban Safety (BUET-JIDPUS) was present as chief guest in the seminar. Prof. Dr. Md. Mujibur Rahman, Dept. of Civil Engineering, UIU and Director, Center for Smart Infrastructure Resilience and Sustainability (CSIRS-UIU) presided over the seminar, said a press release.
In his speech, the chief guest discussed the current earthquake risk level of Bangladesh using established geological and geotechnical data, as well as engineering measures to improve the earthquake resistance of buildings. He explained the concept of Detailed Engineering Assessment (DEA), highlighting how a systematic assessment of structural integrity helps identify vulnerabilities and prioritize interventions. He emphasized the importance of retrofitting old structures to improve their performance under earthquake stress. He also introduced the color-coded RMG Initial Building Assessment Summary, illustrating its use as a quick tool to identify buildings that need urgent attention.
The seminar provided students with a comprehensive understanding of earthquake assessment and resilient building practices. By linking DEA, retrofitting, and practical evaluation methods, it reinforced the importance of safety-conscious, evidence-based engineering, equipping students to become competent and responsible civil engineers. The faculty members, students, officials, academicians, journalists and other distinguished guests were present in the program.
