It is alarming that a large number of buildings in old Dhaka are in extremely dilapidated condition. These buildings are posing a threat to the people living there. When workers were demolishing one such building, it collapsed and badly damaged another building which was beside it.
The dilapidated buildings should be demolished as soon as possible. Otherwise, fatal accidents may occur any time. It should be noted that roads in old Dhaka are so narrow that it is next to impossible for the Fire Brigade to reach there in case of emergency.
Seven years back, in 2010 a fire broke out in Nimtoli and 117 people died. The population density in the residential areas has made the situation worse. Also, the narrow lanes of old Dhaka and staircases of old buildings have made it difficult for the Fire Service equipment to enter the area.
The old shaky buildings of old Dhaka may collapse even in moderate tremors. Seismic experts are giving warnings that the capital city is situated in an earthquake-prone zone and an earthquake measuring 7 on the Richter scale may devastate its skyline.
I appeal to Dhaka South City Corporation to come up with a long-term plan to demolish old buildings of old Dhaka which are posing a great risk to the people who are living there. I hope the government will give due importance to the matter so that we may avert any possible tragedy in future. A stitch in time saves nine!
Mohammad Sohel Hara
Bonosree, Dhaka
