Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Administrator Bir Muktijoddha Md Abdus Salam has called for coordinated efforts among the Fire Service, police, Red Crescent and other agencies to ensure public safety during emergencies.
He made the call while chairing the fifth meeting of the DSCC Disaster Management Committee at Nagar Bhaban on Monday afternoon, according to a press release.
Abdus Salam stated that disaster preparedness must reflect the rescue equipment and operational capabilities of each agency, rather than remaining limited to paper-based responsibility sharing.
Highlighting the unplanned development across much of Dhaka South, he stressed the need for joint efforts, regular drills, and public awareness programs to mitigate risks from fires, building collapses, and earthquakes.
Referring to a recent fire incident at Moulvibazar in Old Dhaka, he noted that narrow roads, water shortages, and roadside shops hampered firefighters' access to the scene.
He emphasized that high-rise buildings and commercial establishments must maintain basic firefighting equipment and fire hydrants, while also advocating for the underground installation of overhead cables and the preservation of water bodies in Dholaikhal.
Why it matters
The meeting addresses critical urban safety and disaster preparedness infrastructure challenges in Dhaka South.