A powerful 5.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Bangladesh on Friday morning, killing at least six people and injuring dozens, according to local media reports.
Here are the top updates:
1. Widespread damage reported
Several buildings sustained damage across multiple districts, including Dhaka, one of the world’s most densely populated capitals. Tremors were also felt across India’s eastern states bordering Bangladesh, though officials reported no major damage in India so far, as per Reuters.
2. Epicentre near Dhaka
The quake occurred at 10:38 a.m., with its epicentre in the Ghorashal area of Narsingdi district, roughly 25 km from Dhaka. The U.S. Geological Survey recorded its depth at 10 km. Police confirmed that three people died after the railing of a six-storey building collapsed during the tremor.
3. Panic as buildings shook violently
Residents rushed outdoors as structures swayed and temporary buildings buckled. Witnesses told Reuters the tremors were so intense that “buildings were shaking like trees.” Staircases were clogged with people scrambling to escape. Injuries were reported due to falling bricks and debris from under-construction sites. “I’ve never felt such a tremor,” said Dhaka resident Sadman Sakib. “Furniture was shaking, and everyone ran into the streets in panic.”
4. Government urges calm
Interim government head Muhammad Yunus appealed for calm and warned citizens against rumours. “Stay alert and rely only on official information,” he said, assuring that authorities are assessing the situation and will provide guidance through hotlines and verified channels.
5. Tremors hit Kolkata, West Bengal & Assam
Strong tremors jolted Kolkata, parts of West Bengal, and Guwahati in Assam, prompting people to rush outside as a precaution. No major damage was immediately reported from the Indian side.
