In the wake of the earthquake that struck the country last Friday (November 21, 2025), a seminar and exchange of views titled “Preparation and Actions to Reduce Earthquake Risk” organized by the Capital Development Authority (RAJUK) was held today, Monday (November 24, 2025) at 1:00 PM at the Council Room of the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) Building. The event was presided over by RAJUK Chairman Engineer Md. Riazul Islam.
Mr. Adilur Rahman Khan, Honorable Advisor to the Ministry of Housing and Public Works and the Ministry of Industries, was present as the chief guest at the seminar. Mr. Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Honorable Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, and Mr. Md. Nazrul Islam, Secretary to the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, were special guests.
In addition, representatives of various organizations of the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, utility and emergency service providers, representatives of professional organizations, representatives of Old Dhaka, earthquake and disaster management experts and researchers from BUET and Dhaka University, REHAB, Dhaka North and South City Corporations and other organizations were present.
BUET’s earthquake and disaster experts Professor Dr. Mehedi Ahmed Ansari and Professor Dr. Tanvir Manjur presented papers on earthquake and disaster preparedness at the seminar.
Honorable Advisor Mr. Syeda Rizwana Hasan emphasized the need to increase public awareness after the earthquake and take prompt action in area-based building risk assessment.
Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Public Works Mr. Md. Nazrul Islam said that RAJUK needs to be stronger in formulating timely plans, strict supervision in field-level activities and implementing a zero tolerance policy against corruption.
In his speech as the chief guest, Honorable Advisor Mr. Adilur Rahman Khan said, “Along with the preparation of the people, coordinated efforts of government agencies are very important to reduce earthquake risk.”
In his closing speech, RAJUK Chairman Engineer Md. Riazul Islam said, “Awareness and active participation of all stakeholders, including government institutions, professionals, building owners and developers, is essential to build a safe and modern city.” He sought everyone’s cooperation in dealing with any disaster, including earthquakes.
