Bangladesh Faces Massive Earthquake Risk With Assets Worth $344 Billion at Stake

A recent study by the Global Earthquake Modeling (GEM) Foundation has revealed that Bangladesh is exposed to earthquake risks threatening assets valued at $344 billion—equivalent to 74 percent of the nation’s GDP for FY 2024–25. The report, developed under the supervision of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office and supported by multiple government agencies and universities, highlights structural weaknesses across the country, particularly in regions located near active fault lines.

Experts warn that Bangladesh remains largely unprepared for a major seismic event. Friday’s 5.7-magnitude earthquake, one of the strongest in recent years, has been described as a precursor to potentially larger quakes. The GEM report estimates that the cost of replacing vulnerable buildings nationwide could reach $356 billion, with the highest expenses expected in Dhaka and Chattogram due to their dense infrastructure and substandard construction practices.

Specialists point to widespread non-engineered structures, poor adherence to building codes, and the presence of liquefiable soil as key contributors to the growing seismic risk. They stress the urgent need for retrofitting unsafe buildings, enforcing regulatory standards, and increasing public awareness to mitigate potential human and economic losses. Experts caution that a 7.0-magnitude earthquake near Dhaka could cause severe casualties and structural collapse on a massive scale, underscoring the need for immediate national preparedness measures.