Rayhan Ahmed, Mymensingh Bureau: Mymensingh observed the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction 2026 on Monday, October 13, with a colourful rally, a discussion meeting and awareness demonstrations on earthquake and fire safety, highlighting the importance of preparedness, public awareness and coordinated action to minimise disaster risks and protect lives and property.The programmes were organised by the Mymensingh district administration, with the initiative taken by the District Relief and Rehabilitation Office. Officials from various government departments, representatives of Fire Service and Civil Defence, and other relevant stakeholders took part in the events.Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Reza Mohammad Golam Masum Pradhan attended the programme as the chief guest, representing the deputy commissioner of Mymensingh.Special guests included Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) Mohammad Azim Uddin, District Relief and Rehabilitation Officer Engineer Rezaul Karim, Additional Deputy Commissioner Shirin Akter, Inspector Mohammad Dulal Akanda, representing the superintendent of police, and Assistant Director of Fire Service and Civil Defence Purna Chandra Mutsuddi.The rally highlighted the need to reduce disaster risks, strengthen advance preparedness and raise public awareness about effective disaster response. At the subsequent discussion meeting, speakers emphasised the importance of coordinated disaster management, timely preparation and swift, effective action during emergencies.They noted that Bangladesh remains vulnerable to various natural disasters because of its geographical location and natural characteristics. Alongside floods, cyclones and lightning strikes, earthquakes and fires pose significant threats that require advance planning, public awareness and practical preparedness measures.The speakers stressed that reducing disaster-related casualties and property damage requires not only the readiness of emergency services but also the active participation of communities. Public awareness of safety measures and appropriate responses can play a vital role in preventing panic and ensuring timely evacuation during emergencies.An awareness demonstration on earthquake and fire safety was among the key attractions of the programme. The demonstration illustrated how people should respond when disasters strike, move to safe locations and support rescue operations while following appropriate safety procedures.Speaking at the event, Assistant Director of Mymensingh Fire Service and Civil Defence Purna Chandra Mutsuddi said the Fire Service remained prepared to respond to disasters and emergencies.He outlined various awareness-raising initiatives undertaken by the department and stressed the need to educate people about making informed decisions, avoiding panic, seeking shelter in safe places and following instructions from rescue personnel during emergencies.The Fire Service also demonstrated several activities with the participation of volunteer teams, showcasing practical approaches to emergency response and rescue operations.The programme underscored the importance of disaster preparedness at both institutional and community levels, with speakers calling for greater awareness and coordinated efforts to reduce risks and protect lives and property.