“Earthquake Jolts Kolkata: 5.7 Magnitude Quake in Bangladesh Sparks Panic in West Bengal”
“Earthquake Jolts Kolkata: 5.7 Magnitude Quake in Bangladesh Sparks Panic in West Bengal”
5.7-magnitude earthquake in Bangladesh sent strong tremors across Kolkata and other parts of West Bengal on Friday. Residents rushed out of buildings in panic, though no major damage was reported. Read the full report on how the quake was felt, public reaction, and safety preparedness.
Friday a 5.7-magnitude earthquake struck Bangladesh, sending strong tremors across several parts of West Bengal, including Kolkata. The sudden shaking lasted only a few seconds, but it was powerful enough to create panic among people living in high-rise buildings, offices, schools, and crowded markets. Many residents rushed out of their homes and workplaces, gathering on the streets until the tremors stopped. While no major damage has been reported so far, the experience has once again raised concerns about earthquake preparedness in the region.
How the Tremors Were Felt in Kolkata
The earthquake originated in Bangladesh, but because Kolkata is close to the border, the vibrations travelled quickly into the city. People from areas like Salt Lake, New Town, Rajarhat, Park Street, Behala, Barasat, and Howrah reported sudden movement in buildings. In many high-rises, ceiling fans and hanging objects were seen shaking, which caused people to react immediately. Social media was also filled with posts from residents describing how their beds, chairs, or desks briefly moved.
Several offices and schools followed safety protocol by asking people to step outside. Traffic slowed down in many busy areas as crowds gathered on the roads after running out of buildings. Even though the tremor was short, the fear it caused was real because the memory of previous earthquakes in the region still remains in people’s minds.
Why West Bengal Feels Tremors Often
West Bengal, especially Kolkata, lies in a region that can feel tremors from earthquakes occurring in Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Northeast India. While Kolkata itself is not located on a major fault line, the soft soil in many parts of the city makes tremors feel stronger than expected. Experts say that the city’s aging buildings and dense population add to the vulnerability.
The 5.7-magnitude earthquake is considered a moderate quake, but its effect was more noticeable because it occurred at a shallow depth. Shallow earthquakes send more intense waves across the surface, which is why people in Kolkata and nearby districts felt it clearly.
Public Reaction and Safety Concerns
As soon as the tremors were felt, people in multi-storey apartments rushed down the stairs, many without waiting to use lifts. Parents from several schools reported that teachers took children to open areas until everything settled. Some people said they felt dizzy, while others panicked, thinking it might lead to a bigger quake.
Authorities confirmed that no major injuries or structural damage have been reported so far. Metro services, airports, and major transport systems continued to function normally. Still, disaster management teams remained on alert for several hours to check for aftershocks.
The incident also sparked a discussion on how prepared the city is for a major earthquake. Many buildings in older parts of Kolkata are not earthquake-resistant, which increases risk during stronger quakes. Experts have repeatedly suggested regular safety checks, retrofitting old structures, and educating people about what to do during an earthquake.
What to Do During an Earthquake
Events like this remind people of the importance of simple safety steps:
Stay calm and do not run.
If inside, take cover under a strong table or stand near a load-bearing wall.
Avoid lifts during and immediately after a quake.
If outside, move away from buildings, trees, and electric wires.
After the tremors stop, check for gas leaks or damaged wires.
Following these basic tips can save lives during sudden earthquakes.
Conclusion
The 5.7-magnitude earthquake that hit Bangladesh and jolted Kolkata served as a fresh reminder of how unpredictable natural disasters can be. Even though the tremors caused no significant damage, the fear among people showed how vulnerable densely populated cities are. Strengthening buildings, improving awareness, and building a culture of preparedness can help reduce risk in the future.
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