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. Strong tremors were felt across West Bengal, Kolkata, and several northeastern states, prompting widespread panic as people rushed outdoors.
The quake occurred at 10:38 am (local time) with its epicentre near Ghorashal in Narsingdi district, about 25 km from Dhaka. The US Geological Survey (USGS) recorded the depth at 10 km.
Initial police statements confirmed three deaths, but Dhaka-based DBC Television later reported six fatalities in the capital alone. Three victims died after portions of a building roof and wall collapsed, while three pedestrians were fatally crushed by falling railings.
Dozens were injured during the chaos as buildings swayed sharply across Dhaka. Residents evacuated high-rises, offices, and homes, gathering in open spaces amid fears of aftershocks.
While northern and southeastern Bangladesh are known earthquake-prone zones due to tectonic activity involving the India and Eurasia plates, central Bangladesh—where Friday’s quake hit—is considered less active, according to USGS analysis.
Strong Tremors in India’s Northeast & Kolkata
Tremors were widely felt across Kolkata, West Bengal, and Guwahati, sending people outdoors in alarm. Social media users from Kolkata described the jolt as brief but frightening.
“Small quake but big panic,” wrote one user on X.
