| Azizul Mohith |
Institute of Architects Bangladesh hosted a lecture presented by leading experts in the sector of Earthquake Resilience in Bangladesh.
The lecture was organized in ‘Chayanat’ auditorium and profoundly addressed the architects and students of architecture. The event included informative presentations from Prof. Jamilur Reza Choudhury, Dr. Syed Humayun Akhter and Brig. Gen. [retd] Abu Nayeem M Shahidullah.
Dr. Humayun Akhter, a profesor and the Chairman from The Department of Geology of Dhaka University focused on geological aspects of earthquake including fault lines within and outside Bangladesh that create risk for us. His presentation was graphically summed up with necessary explanations. He explained why Bangladesh and eventually Dhaka is prone to strong earthquake, the statement which otherwise nullifies recent claims from print media about Bangladesh not being under such threat.
Prof. Jamilur Reza Choudhury, with his long experience in designing earthquake resilience constructions, draw light on what architect’s should emphasize in their design considering any possible disaster of such kind. He has been working in the sector for many years and involved in the Comprehensive Disaster Management Programme (CDMP) headed by UNDP. His presentation was helpful for architects as it provided simple yet effective design guidelines.
The last speaker was Brig. Gen. [Retd] Abu Nayeem M Shahidullah. As the former Director General of ‘Fire Service and Civil Defence’, Mr. Shahidullah explained the disaster response cycle surfacing what should be our reaction after the disaster. He also covered post-earthquake management issues noting the present plan of action and response preparation of govt agencies as well as future development suggestions. His presentation provided useful information and specific guideline from the perspective of a disaster response expert.
The honourable chairman of RAJUK Engr. Jainal Abedin Bhuiyan was present as the chief guest and the lecture ended with a very effective 15 minutes question-answer session. The event was sponsored by Asian Paints Bangladesh.
