Dhaka, Nov 21 (V7N) — Environment, Forests, Climate Change and Water Resources Advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan has warned that Bangladesh must urgently improve preparedness and enforce environmental laws following the powerful earthquake felt across the country on Friday morning.

Speaking at a program in Mirpur, Dhaka, she said, “We have not seen such a strong earthquake in the last five years. Warnings are being given repeatedly. We must take this seriously and prepare.”

The advisor noted that earthquake risks are linked not only to high-rise buildings but also to destructive environmental practices. “Filling water bodies, cutting mountains, and building brick kilns all contribute to this risk,” she said.

Criticizing the culture of ignoring regulations, she added, “A group of people think they will not obey the law. It is important to move away from this mindset. Water bodies and mountains must not be touched.”

Rizwana Hasan emphasized that high-rise structures must strictly comply with building codes. She also called for disaster preparedness training and adherence to a special three-year safety plan.

The earthquake struck at 10:38 am, measuring 5.7 on the Richter scale, with its epicenter in Narsingdi at a depth of 10 kilometers. The Meteorological Department classified it as a “moderate” quake.

So far, three deaths have been reported in Dhaka, with several buildings collapsing in different parts of the capital.

END/SMA/AJ