Photo : Messenger
In the heart of every bustling metropolis lies a silent guardian, one whose absence could spell catastrophe: water. Yet, in the throes of rapid urbanisation, megacities worldwide are facing an alarming shortage of this vital resource, particularly when it comes to combating the relentless fury of fire and Dhaka is not an exception.
Behind the facade of urban splendour lies a sobering reality: the challenge of adequately supplying water for fire emergencies. With sprawling cityscapes stretching for miles, fire departments grapple with the daunting task of ensuring sufficient water access to quench the flames that threaten lives and livelihoods.
What we have seen in the recent past is undoubtedly alarming when Dhaka city experienced (experiencing) numerous fire accidents that snatched away people's lives. The Baily Road Tragedy is a pathetic example among them. Though, throughout the years, the legacy of fire continues in Dhaka city. What's the reason behind it? There are a number of reasons. But among them, the lack of sufficient water bodies is a concerning issue. When a fire breaks out, the fire service has to face this problem, which ultimately lengthens the rescue efforts and extends the losses.
According to a survey report by the Institute of Water Modelling, over 10,000 hectares of wetlands, canals, and lowlands in Dhaka have been lost since 1985.
When asked about it by the Officer In Charge of the Media Cell of the Department of Fire Service and Civil Defence, Md. Shahjahan Sikder told The Daily Messenger, "Yes, surface water bodies are decreasing and consequently, fire services have to suffer to put out the fire within a short time as the available water bodies are limited, so for transportation, it takes time".
Regarding this, he prescribed that- "all should set water reservoir in each and every building in an easily accessible place. Water collected from a distance often has fractional loss and hence, water pressure loss. And these tasks are quick and easy when water bodies are nearby". Besides, he urged all not to waste water but rather to preserve it in all possible ways.
So, one of the most pressing concerns facing megacities like Dhaka is the depletion of natural water bodies. Rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, once abundant sources of water, are now strained under the weight of urban demand and environmental degradation. Rapid urban expansion encroaches upon these bodies of water, diminishing their capacity to serve as reliable reservoirs for firefighting efforts.
Likewise, our capital, Dhaka, a densely populated, overcrowded megacity, also lacks the sufficiency of water. As the water bodies are decreasing very alarmingly through the decades. So it's time to think about this with serious eyes. If such things go on, it definitely would be unliveable in the near future.
According to a 2019 study by the Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP), the capital has lost 36% of its water bodies to earthfilling since the publication of Dhaka’s Detailed Area Plan in 2010.
Compounding this issue is the growing strain on municipal water supplies. As populations surge and industries thrive, the demand for water escalates, leaving city authorities scrambling to meet the needs of both everyday consumption and emergency response. In times of crisis, the inadequacy of infrastructure becomes painfully evident, with firefighting operations hampered by insufficient water pressure and limited access to hydrants.
The consequences of water scarcity in Dhaka city reverberate far beyond the realm of firefighting. In densely populated urban areas, where buildings stand shoulder to shoulder, the risk of fire spreading unchecked is a constant specter. Without an ample water supply to douse the flames, the potential for devastation looms large, threatening not only property but also the lives of inhabitants.
Besides, a 2015 World Bank report said the potential damage from waterlogging for Dhaka between 2014 and 2050, even without climate change, would be BDT 110 billion (about $1 billion); in a changing climate with more intense rainfall, the loss would be BDT 1.39 trillion (about $13 billion) between 2014 and 2050, according to the report.
Addressing the shortage of water bodies for fire emergencies demands a multifaceted approach that encompasses urban planning, infrastructure investment, and sustainable water management. Dhaka City must prioritise the preservation and restoration of natural water sources, safeguarding them against pollution and encroachment.
According to the Detailed Area Plan 2022 of Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk), there are a total of 3,464 ponds in its 1,528 sq-km jurisdiction. But between 2010 and 2019, Dhaka lost a staggering 3,440 acres out of the 9,556 acres.
To prevent fire, all city dwellers should follow some instructions, such as:
Have fire extinguishers: Keep fire extinguishers in accessible locations throughout your home or workplace, and ensure everyone knows how to use them.
Practice safe cooking habits: Never leave cooking unattended, keep flammable objects away from stoves, and use caution with hot surfaces and oils.
Educate about fire safety: Teach family members or employees about fire safety practices, including how to respond in case of a fire emergency.
Besides storing and handling flammable liquids safely, keeping matches, lighters, and other fire-starting materials out of reach of children, these should be followed very strictly to prevent fire accidents.
Moreover, the disappearance of water bodies has created multifaceted problems like rising water levels, airborne diseases, and mosquito-related diseases. So it's high time to take major steps immediately to secure living safe and sound. And concerning authorities along with the Govt. should come forward to secure people's lives.
As the city lacks surface water and as it is decresing very alarmingly, the prevention of water and balanced use of water is important. And for our own’s sake, to stay safe from fire accidents, we should keep these in mind. To make the job of the fire service smoother and easier its important to use water as required, as well as we should be more aware about fire accidents. Its time to think closely about how to control fire and related loses.
Furthermore, as the flames of urbanization continue to engulf our world, the importance of water as a lifeline in the fight against fire cannot be overstated. Megacities like Dhaka must heed the warning signs of water scarcity and take decisive action to safeguard this precious resource, lest they find themselves engulfed in a crisis of their own making. In the battle between fire and water, the stakes are high, and the time for action is now. Otherwise, the city has to sacrifice more lives and once would be a cursed utopia in the near future.
The writer is a student of MA final year at National University and also a Sub Editor of The Daily Messenger.
Messenger/Fameema
