Technical Brief - Seismic Risk Assessment in Bangladesh
Md Nurul Alam
Resilient Infrastructure Specialist @ ADPC | Risk Assessment, Vulnerability Assessment
Technical Brief - Seismic Risk Assessment in Bangladesh
“The project “Seismic Risk Assessment in Bangladesh" was initiated by the Comprehensive Disaster Management Programme (CDMP) under the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief (MaDMR) of the Government of the Peoples’ Republic of Bangladesh. The Programme is funded by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), European Union (EU), Norwegian Embassy, UKaid, Swedish Sida and Australian Aid. The study was conducted in two phases, CDMP I (2007-2009) and CDMP II (2012-2014). In phase I seismic risk assessments were conducted for Dhaka, Chittagong and Sylhet city corporation areas, while in phase II assessments were conducted for Bogra, Dinajpur, Mymensingh, Rajshahi, Rangpur and Tangail city corporation/municipal areas. The main objectives of the project has been to understand the prevailing earthquake hazard in the national context; to understand the vulnerability and risk related to earthquake in the major cities of the country; and to undertake initiatives for earthquake preparedness and capacity building in accordance with requirements at, National, City, Community and Agency levels.”
The seismic risk assessment atlas titled "Seismic Risk Assessment in Bangladesh" presents a comprehensive overview of the seismic hazards, vulnerabilities, and potential impacts associated with earthquakes in the region. The atlas aims to provide policymakers, urban planners, engineers, and other stakeholders with valuable insights to inform disaster preparedness and risk reduction strategies in Bangladesh.
Seismic Hazard Analysis:
The atlas begins with a detailed seismic hazard analysis, utilizing historical earthquake data, fault studies, and probabilistic seismic hazard assessment techniques. The seismic hazard maps depict the estimated ground shaking intensities, peak ground accelerations, and response spectra for various return periods. These maps serve as fundamental tools for understanding the potential severity of earthquakes in different parts of Bangladesh.
Vulnerability Assessment:
To assess the vulnerability of buildings and infrastructure, the atlas incorporates data on building types, construction practices, and materials used across the country. Vulnerability curves are developed to estimate potential damage levels based on the intensity of ground shaking. These curves aid in understanding the potential impact on different building types and identifying areas prone to higher levels of damage.
Risk Mapping and Zonation:
The integration of seismic hazard and vulnerability data allows for the creation of seismic risk maps and zonation. These maps highlight areas of high and low seismic risk, aiding in prioritizing resources for mitigation efforts. The zonation provides a spatial representation of potential damage, casualties, and economic losses, facilitating targeted risk reduction strategies.
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Critical Infrastructure Analysis:
The atlas includes an assessment of critical infrastructure, such as hospitals, schools, transportation networks, and utilities, in relation to seismic risks. This analysis identifies key vulnerabilities and highlights the importance of ensuring the resilience of critical facilities to minimize societal disruptions during and after earthquakes.
Socio-Economic Impact Assessment:
Quantifying the potential socio-economic impacts of earthquakes is crucial for effective risk management. The atlas incorporates demographic data, economic indicators, and spatial distribution of assets to estimate potential losses in terms of lives, property, and economic productivity. This information aids in prioritizing interventions and policy decisions.
Mitigation Strategies:
Based on the assessment of seismic risk, the atlas provides recommendations for seismic risk reduction and mitigation strategies. These strategies encompass a range of measures, including land-use planning, building codes enforcement, retrofitting of vulnerable structures, public awareness campaigns, emergency response planning, and capacity building for local authorities.
Future Considerations:
The atlas acknowledges the dynamic nature of seismic risk and highlights the need for continuous monitoring, updating of hazard and vulnerability assessments, and adaptation of mitigation strategies as new information becomes available. It emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving collaboration between government agencies, academia, non-governmental organizations, and international partners.
The "Seismic Risk Assessment in Bangladesh" atlas serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding and managing seismic risks in the country. By providing a detailed analysis of seismic hazards, vulnerabilities, and potential impacts, the atlas offers valuable insights for informed decision-making, policy formulation, and the development of effective strategies to enhance resilience and reduce the impact of earthquakes in Bangladesh.