Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives in Friday’s earthquake, BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman said the casualties and damage could have been minimized if proper precautionary measures had been taken beforehand.

“A devastating earthquake today caused extensive damage to several high-rise buildings in Dhaka and other parts of the country. I am deeply saddened by the casualties and widespread destruction,” he said in a condolence message.

According to initial reports, six people lost their lives and more than two hundred were injured. Tarique Rahman expressed solidarity with all affected and conveyed his sympathy to the victims. He prayed to Almighty Allah to grant patience and strength to the families of those killed and injured.

“Had the government taken advance precautions, it would have been possible to improve disaster management, protect people, and reduce losses,” he added.

The BNP leader also praised the resilience of the people of Bangladesh, noting that they have historically overcome various natural disasters. “I firmly believe they will also recover from the damage caused by today’s earthquake. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party stands beside those affected,” he said.

Tarique Rahman prayed for the eternal peace of the departed souls, extended condolences to the bereaved families, and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.

Earlier on Friday, a 5.7-magnitude earthquake jolted Dhaka and several other parts of Bangladesh, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).