ECUADOR has been rocked by a strong earthquake and already more than 420 people are reported to have died and around three people have been injured. The death toll may rise further as many people are still under the rubble. The world needs to come forward to help Ecuador for rescue and rehabilitation of the affected people.
The earthquake occurred in an area of around 27 sq kilometres. It will take years and billions of dollars to repair the damage and the world should extend help for the victims so that they can recover from this disaster. Our hearts are with the victims and I hope they will have the courage and fortitude to bear the shock and repair the damage.
We cannot predict natural disasters like earthquake, but we can minimise the damages by constructing earthquake-resilient buildings which will help keep damages to the minimum. A state of emergency has been declared in the country and the world is coming forward to help the victims.
Farhan
Mohakhali, Dhaka
