Dhaka, Nov. 29 -- Engineers and experts have underlined the importance of using modern construction technology to reduce loss of life and property during earthquakes.

On Saturday, at a seminar titled "Earthquake Awareness, Safety Protocols and Emergency Preparedness" in a Dhaka hotel, they spoke about the heightened seismic risk in the city.

Engineer Abdullah Al Hossain Chowdhury Rizvi said, "The expanded areas of Dhaka, especially Bashundhara, Jalsiri and Purbachal, are geologically the most earthquake-prone.

"Modern technology must be used in infrastructure. Soil testing reports must be verified before construction."

"Rapid urbanisation, dense population, disregard for building codes and narrow roads further complicate the situation...