Why lower the antenna?

Bangladesh was fortunate enough to be spared the ill consequences of the earthquake, even though the one we have had of moderate intensity was epicentred just 428 kilometres off the Chittagong observatory centre. Indeed, the entire region can be thankful for the fact that the quake did not trigger a massive tsunami, as had been the case in December, that would have once again brought devastation to coastal areas all across the region.

However, the fact that there was no tsunami this time does not mean that we can remain oblivious to the threat. The fact that we were spared this time does not mean that we would be so fortunate in future.

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Indeed, the lack of any response by the Bangladeshi authorities in the wake of the tsunami warning that was issued shortly after the quake was detected is very worrisome. It is clear that, even after the devastation of December, we did not have any procedure or system in place to warn coastal populations and ensure their safety in the event that there had been a tsunami.

This is unacceptable. Tsunami or earthquake is a very real threat and the damage caused by one can be greatly reduced if there are simple and clear guidelines and procedures in place. The fact that there have been two major earthquakes in the region in a matter of months should be a wake up call to the authorities to institute a procedure immediately.

In fact, the cyclone information dissemination mechanism that we have in place, which relies on messengers on bicycles sounding the warning in coastal regions, is both innovative and effective, and has won plaudits internationally. A similar system put in place to guard against the possibility of a tsunami would be a relatively simple and very effective solution.