Post by : Rameen Ariff

A powerful earthquake jolted Bangladesh on Friday morning, instigating alarm, destruction, and casualties across multiple regions. The tremor, recorded at 5.5 magnitude, occurred at 10:38 am near Narsingdi, approximately 33 km from the capital, Dhaka.

Fear Gripped the City as Buildings Shuddered

The abrupt shake incited panic, particularly as many individuals were home enjoying their day off. In various neighborhoods of Dhaka, people fled buildings in fear, with some captured comforting each other amidst the turmoil.

Authorities have indicated that at least nine lives have been lost and more than 300 individuals injured due to the quake. Several victims are being treated in Dhaka's hospitals for serious injuries.

Infrastructure Damage and Fire Outbreak

No fewer than 14 structures suffered damage across various districts. Debris from an eight-storey building in Dhaka collapsed onto a bustling road, injuring nearby individuals.

Following the quake, a fire ignited at a power station, but emergency crews managed to contain it swiftly.

Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of chaos. One man noted he witnessed rubble striking individuals waiting in line to purchase meat. Another witness tragically remarked about a young child who succumbed to injuries inflicted by falling debris.

Government's Response Underway

Interim leader of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, expressed his condolences for the deceased and injured. He reassured that government agencies have been instructed to evaluate damages and provide immediate assistance.

According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, the tremors lasted roughly 26 seconds, long enough for residents to evacuate and for buildings to teeter.

Yunus, who took office after last year's national upheaval, assured that the necessary actions are being implemented swiftly. National elections are scheduled for February 2026.

Tremors Felt in India as Well

The quake was also experienced in the Indian city of Kolkata, over 325 km from the epicenter. Residents there evacuated homes and offices, though no significant damage was reported throughout India.

The complete extent of the disaster's impact in Bangladesh remains under assessment, with emergency teams actively monitoring affected locales.

#Asia News #Global