Dhaka has always been a vibrant and rapidly growing megacity, but beneath its busy streets lies a dangerous reality. Recent earthquakes and expert warnings have revealed a sobering truth: Dhaka is not structurally prepared to survive a major earthquake.
Multiple geological assessments now confirm that over 8 lakh buildings (more than 40% of the city’s structures) could collapse during a magnitude-7 or stronger quake. In fact, a Rajuk survey found that 95% of buildings constructed between 2006–2016 were unauthorized or built without proper approval.
For anyone planning to buy, rent, or invest in property in Dhaka, understanding earthquake risks and RAJUK’s role in building safety is no longer optional, it is essential.
This comprehensive guide explains:
- Why Dhaka is at high earthquake risk
- What RAJUK is doing (and not doing) to improve safety
- How to check if a building is safe before you buy or rent a flat
Why Dhaka Is Extremely Vulnerable to Earthquakes
1. Dhaka Sits on Multiple Active Fault Lines
Bangladesh lies at the intersection of three major tectonic plates, the Indian, Burmese, and Eurasian plates.
Experts have warned that the region has accumulated enough stress to trigger a massive quake, possibly magnitude 8+.
The recent magnitude 5.7 earthquake was described as a warning sign, not an isolated event.
2. Soft Soil Makes Shaking Worse
Dhaka is built on soft sedimentary land.
This soil amplifies shaking, and when its frequency matches the vibration of buildings, structures can collapse — even if the quake is moderate.
3. Unplanned Buildings and Weak Construction Practices
Dhaka has 21.45 lakh buildings, but:
- 8 lakh+ are at risk of collapse
- 75,000+ high-rises exist
- Only 4,147 out of 95,000 buildings (constructed between 2006–2016) had RAJUK approval
This means over 95% of new buildings were built:
- without approved designs
- using untrained masons
- altering structural plans mid-construction
- ignoring the Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC)
RAJUK Policies: Intentions vs. Reality
RAJUK has several guidelines and projects meant to improve urban resilience, but experts say implementation has been weak.
Current RAJUK Initiatives
1. Urban Resilience Project
A major initiative aiming to:
- Assess building vulnerability
- Identify high-risk zones
- Promote earthquake-resilient development
- Update land-use planning
However, equipment and systems reportedly remain unused due to bureaucratic delays.
2. Mandatory Building Code Requirements
Developers must submit designs following BNBC guidelines, but enforcement remains inconsistent.
3. New Color-Coded Building Safety System
RAJUK plans to introduce a color-coded system:
- Green: Safe
- Yellow: Requires repair/retrofitting
- Red: Dangerous or illegal
This will help residents quickly identify whether a building is habitable.
4. Safety Assessments
RAJUK teams have begun inspecting cracked and damaged buildings.
However, the volume is too high for the available manpower.
Challenges That Keep Dhaka Unsafe
Despite policies, several major limitations remain:
❌ 1. Weak enforcement
Most buildings still bypass approval or deviate from approved plans.
❌ 2. Shortage of manpower & equipment
RAJUK cannot assess millions of buildings with its current resources.
❌ 3. Bureaucratic delays
Modern safety equipment acquired under World Bank projects remains unused.
❌ 4. Unsafe construction practices
Buildings on reclaimed wetlands or landfills are more vulnerable.
❌ 5. Lack of public awareness
Residents rarely check construction quality, approval status, or soil condition before buying or renting.
What Buyers and Tenants MUST Check Before Buying or Renting in Dhaka
Earthquake safety should now be one of your top priorities when choosing an apartment.
Below is a checklist to protect yourself, your family, and your investment.
1. Ask for RAJUK Approval Documents
Before renting or buying:
- Approved Building Plan
- RAJUK Clearance Certificate
- Occupancy Certificate
- Soil test report (SPT report)
- Structural design approval
If the owner cannot provide these, the building may not be safe.
2. Check Structural Quality and Building Age
Inspect:
- Column and beam thickness
- Crack marks
- Damp walls
- Basement or parking condition
- Reinforcement exposure
Older buildings (20+ years) need extra caution unless retrofitted.
3. Ask About BNBC Compliance
All buildings should follow the Bangladesh National Building Code including:
- Earthquake-resistant foundation
- Quality steel and concrete
- Proper reinforcements
- Fire safety systems
Most buildings do NOT follow these. Always verify.
4. Evaluate Soil Condition and Land History
Buildings on:
- Filled wetlands
- Lowlands
- Landfills
- Recently reclaimed land
… are significantly more vulnerable to liquefaction during earthquakes.
Ask the owner or developer where the land came from.
5. Review the Building’s Maintenance & Repair History
A well-maintained building is safer.
Check whether:
- Lift inspections are updated
- Fire equipment is functional
- Basement pumps and generators work
- Structural repairs were done recently
Poorly maintained buildings deteriorate quickly.
6. Inspect the Surrounding Neighborhood
Avoid buildings:
- Beside narrow alleys (difficult to evacuate)
- Surrounded by dense illegal structures
- In areas with poor fire service access
A safe building in a risky neighborhood becomes unsafe.
7. Ask Whether the Building Was Inspected After the Recent Earthquake
After the 5.7 magnitude quake, many buildings developed cracks.
Check if:
- RAJUK inspectors visited
- Any repair recommendations were given
- The building was declared habitable
If the building was NOT checked, reconsider.
8. Look for Upcoming Color Coding Once Implemented
RAJUK’s color-coded safety tag (when rolled out) will help tenants and buyers identify:
- Safe buildings
- Moderately unsafe buildings
- Dangerously illegal buildings
Always choose Green-rated buildings.
9. Check the Fire Safety and Emergency Systems
Because a major earthquake is usually followed by:
- Gas leaks
- Electrical fires
- Waterline damage
The building should have:
- Adequate fire extinguishers
- Emergency exit stairs
- Smoke detectors
- Separate gas line valves per floor
10. Consult an Independent Engineer If Needed
If you are buying a flat, a one-time structural assessment by a private engineer costs far less than the future risk.
Why This Matters Now More Than Ever
Experts warn that a magnitude 7+ earthquake could make Dhaka unliveable, as:
- Buildings collapse
- Roads get blocked
- Fire erupts from gas lines
- Water, sewage, and power lines fail
Your safety depends on the decisions you make before choosing a flat.
Conclusion
Dhaka’s earthquake vulnerability is no longer theoretical, it is a documented, immediate threat backed by geologists, RAJUK surveys, and recent tremors. While the city continues to grow, construction oversight remains weak, making it essential for buyers and tenants to verify the safety of any building they choose.
Earthquake resilience should be treated as seriously as location, price, or amenities. A safe building isn’t just an investment, it’s protection for your family and your future.
Need Help Finding a Safe, Verified Apartment in Dhaka?
If you want trusted support in choosing earthquake-safe, RAJUK-approved, legally clean, and structurally sound properties, Century Realtor BD is here to guide you.
👉 Contact us today or call:
📞 +880 17 1167 0219
📞 +880 19 7524 4821
📞 +880 13 00 37 6849
Stay safe. Stay informed. Choose a home that protects your family.
