The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

A Taka 10 crore three-year project is likely to be launched soon to strengthen search and rescue operation of Fire Service and Civil Defense (FSCD) department as part of the government's preparedness programme for any disasters, especially earthquake.

Under the project planned for 2009-2011, fire fighting activities will be made more dynamic and finer by equipping them with modern equipment and necessary logistic supports, FSCD Director General Brig Gen Abu Nayem Md Sahidullah told BSS Monday.

Outlining the planned project, Nayem said its main objective is to ensure effective emergency response and minimise loss of life and property in time of disasters, especially earthquake.

The authorities have already identified the most earthquake- prone areas of the country and taken a programme to train nearly 50,000 volunteers, he said.

Director of FSCD Major Motiur Rahman said prior to launching of the planned three-year project, a 6-month pilot project will be initiated in September next incorporating most vulnerable 60 wards of Dhaka, Chittagong and Sylhet city corporations.

Comprehensive Disaster Management Programme (CDMP) under the Food and Disaster Management Ministry is providing technical support in this regard.

As part of the pilot project, the CDMP have provided the FSCD with modern apparatus like firemen suits, heat protective asbestos suits and breathing equipment.

Experts said earthquake is one of the feared natural disasters which had caused huge loss of lives and properties worldwide.

Rapid urbanisation, engineering works, industrialisation of cities, constructing modern buildings and concentration of population in some hazardous areas have been identified as growing concerns for the earthquake, they said.

The experts suggested carrying out more studies and analysis of the seismicity of Bangladesh with a view to reducing the risk of earthquake.