Dr AZM Zahid Hossain today spoke at a discussion held at the Kazi Nazrul Islam Auditorium of the National Press Club. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Nov 21, 2025 (BSS)- BNP Standing Committee Member Dr AZM Zahid Hossain today said the government should urgently decide what steps to take right now to protect the public from earthquakes.

He said, "If we—mean the state, which includes the current government or an interim government—do not take urgent measures now, just think of the buildings in Old Dhaka and think of the earthquakes that occur in Turkey, Iran, or Afghanistan. After the earthquake this morning, there is surely no reason to think that we have a high chance of being safe."

Dr. Zahid made the remark at a discussion held at the Kazi Nazrul Islam Auditorium of the National Press Club here.

He said, "I believe this is the right time for the government, conscious citizens, and especially the Geological Survey and those involved in building design and planning. Any further delay could lead to massive damage. Steps should be taken to find out how to minimize the damage."

He also noted, "As you know, there is an international conference on climate change happening in Brazil, but the response from the developed countries responsible for climate change around the world is not sufficient. That is why you will notice lately that sometimes the winter in Bangladesh is very long, sometimes the heat is excessive, and sometimes our low-lying areas are being submerged."

"In other words, those of us who experienced the geopolitical and climatic conditions of 20, 25, or 50 years ago understand the difference between the past and the present change," he added. 

An earthquake, measuring 5.7 magnitude, was felt across Bangladesh, including Dhaka, at 10:38 AM. 

The discussion meeting was organized jointly by the Jatiyatabadi Matsyajibi Dal Dhaka Mohanagar North and South to mark November 7 National Revolution and Solidarity Day. 

As the leaders and workers were inside the auditorium, the sudden earthquake prompted them to quickly exit the venue.

Commenting on the current political situation, Dr Zahid said, "Many people remember the old arson terrorism, when 11 people were burned to death with gunpowder in a double-decker BRTC bus in front of the Sheraton Hotel during 174 days of hartal (strikes). The very people who committed those acts are now facing a verdict, and both before and after it, they returned to the field to create disorder and chaos using that old fire terrorism."

"Therefore, the nation was united after August 5. If we become divided now, who will benefit? The fallen or fugitive dictator and their associates who are still active will benefit. They will try to slip through the crack if they can destroy our unity. The dictator has fled, but their associates remain. We must remember to keep an eye on the people around us—what they are doing and how they are behaving," he added.

He appealed to all political parties to seek the people's mandate for the elections.

The discussion meeting was presided over by Amir Hossain Amir, Convener of Matsyajibi North, and conducted by K M Sohel Rana, Member Secretary of Matsyajibi South, and Baki Billah, Member Secretary of Matsyajibi North. 

The speakers included former secretary Abdur Rahim, a member of the Matsyajibi Dal, and Shah Alam, Convener of Matsyajibi South, among other leaders.