The country's first flyover was opened to commuters on November 4, 2004 even before it became completely tremor-proof. So far, 21 STUs have been installed although there are provisions to for 42 of them in the original plan.

According to the Bangladesh Earthquake Society (BES), the possibility of a strong earthquake in Bangladesh has increased following the devastating quake across SouthEast and South Asia on December 26.

"Dhaka may experience an earthquake measuring 'intensity VIII' which could be very serious," said Dr. Mehdi Ahmed Ansary, secretary general of BES.

He added that Dhaka had experienced one massive earthquake in 1897 which brought about huge destruction and sounded an ominous warning.

"Big earthquakes usually recur 100 years after the last one which means Dhaka could be jolted at any time," Ansary explained.

In case of a severe tremor, the 1.12 km long and 17.9 meter wide Mohakhali flyover might not be able to withstand the shock as it lacks enough STUs. Experts said that STUs were necessary not only for flyovers to survive from earthquakes but also to reduce the effects of pressure from heavy vehicles on the structure.

Sources in Dhaka Urban transport Coordination Board (DTCB) had earlier told Star City that at least 54 STUs were necessary for the flyover, but that number was later reduced to 42 apparently because of budget constraint.

When asked why all the 42 STUs have not been installed as yet, DTCB officials attributed the delay to contractual factors.

DTCB sources said the contractor wanted to use Chinese STUs on the flyover but the authorities refused to permit those. Instead they suggested using US-made STUs which were costlier but of much better quality. The contractor then brought 21 STUs worth Tk 6.40 crore from the US and installed them but was reportedly delaying in bringing the other 21.

"It is a serious breach of contractual obligation. All the STUs should have been installed on time," said Quamrul Islam Siddique, former executive director of DTCB adding that the flyover remained at risk.

DTCB officials however said the remaining 21 STUs were on their way to Bangladesh. "Hopefully those will be installed by March," said one official.