Deadly Quake in Bangladesh: Six Lives Lost as Tremors Rattle Kolkata
A strong earthquake struck central Bangladesh on Friday, killing at least six people and injuring dozens, according to local reports. The quake, measured between magnitude 5.5 and 5.7, had its epicenter near Narsingdi, a short distance from Dhaka, and originated from a shallow depth of about 10 km. Its effects were not confined to Bangladesh; tremors were also felt across eastern India, notably in Kolkata and parts of the northeast, sparking widespread panic among residents.
Seismic Shock in Bangladesh
An earthquake hit central Bangladesh on Friday morning, with U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data placing its magnitude at 5.5, while regional agencies recorded up to 5.7.
The tremor originated at a depth of approximately 10 km, making it relatively shallow — a factor contributing to the intensity felt on the surface.
Its epicenter was located in the Ghorashal area of the Narsingdi District, roughly 25–40 km from Dhaka, as determined by both USGS and regional seismic authorities.
Human Toll and Structural Damage
Local media and official sources confirm six fatalities in the aftermath of the quake. Some of the deaths occurred when building elements — including roofs, walls, and railings — collapsed. In Dhaka’s old city, three pedestrians were reportedly killed when a building’s railing gave way.
Injuries were widespread, particularly in construction zones, where falling masonry and loose cement caused harm. Emergency services were mobilized swiftly, and hospitals in Dhaka and nearby districts received the injured for treatment.
Muhammad Yunus, interim head of Bangladesh’s administration, urged calm and advised citizens to rely only on official information channels.
Panic Across Borders: Kolkata Trembles
Although the epicenter lay in Bangladesh, the quake was strongly felt in Kolkata, West Bengal, and parts of India’s northeast, including Assam. Residents in high-rise buildings reported swaying furniture and trembling fans, prompting many to evacuate to open spaces.
Despite the intensity, there are no confirmed reports of fatalities or major structural damage in India, according to local authorities.
Geotectonic Context and Risks
Seismologists note that Bangladesh lies in a relatively stable central zone, compared to its northern and southeastern regions, which are more seismically active due to tectonic interactions between the Indian and Eurasian plates. Still, the quake underscores a latent seismic risk even in areas not typically considered high-risk.
This incident has prompted renewed calls for better earthquake preparedness, especially in densely populated cities like Dhaka, where construction standards and early-warning systems may require strengthening.
Looking Ahead
Authorities in Bangladesh continue to assess the damage and monitor for aftershocks. Given the shallow depth of this quake, seismological agencies warn that the risk of further tremors remains until the crust stabilizes.
Meanwhile, in Kolkata and neighboring regions, the event serves as a stark reminder of cross-border seismic vulnerability — and a prompt for governments and citizens alike to reinforce disaster-readiness measures, from building codes to public awareness.
