Key Highlights
- A 5.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Dhaka, Bangladesh, triggering tremors in Kolkata and the northeast region of India.
- No immediate reports of injuries or damage were reported from the affected areas.
- The tremors were felt across several Indian cities including Guwahati, Agartala, and Shillong.
- Bangladesh experiences frequent seismic activity due to its location at the junction of three tectonic plates.
Earthquake in Bangladesh: Impact on Kolkata and Northeast India
A 5.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, on Friday morning, triggering tremors across multiple cities in the northeastern part of India, including Kolkata. The seismic event was recorded at 10:08 am local time on November 21, 2025, approximately 13 kilometers southwest of Narsingdi, with a depth of 10 kilometers.
Residents in Kolkata reported brief tremors around 10:10 am, with many coming out onto the streets as a precautionary measure. Similar mild tremors were also felt in Guwahati, Agartala, and Shillong. According to reports from the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s epicenter was located near Narsingdi.
Precautionary Measures and Observations
The tremors prompted a swift reaction among residents of Kolkata, with many stepping outside their homes for safety and reassurance. Within minutes, videos capturing the moment began circulating widely on social media platforms, providing visual evidence of the seismic activity.
In response to the earthquake, authorities in affected regions are closely monitoring the situation for any reports of injuries or damage. So far, there have been no immediate reports indicating significant impact from the tremors.
Seismic Activity in Bangladesh and Its Impact
Bangladesh experiences frequent seismic activity due to its location at the junction of three tectonic plates—the Indian, Eurasian, and Burma plates. The country is crisscrossed by several major fault lines, including the Bogura, Tripura, Dauki, and Assam faults, placing it within 13 earthquake-prone zones.
Dhaka, with a population density exceeding 30,000 people per square kilometer, ranks as one of the 20 most earthquake-vulnerable cities globally. Despite its high risk, Bangladesh has implemented measures to mitigate the impact of seismic activity through regular drills and awareness campaigns among residents.
Expert Perspectives on Seismic Activity
Dr. Raju Das, a seismologist at the National Centre for Seismology, commented on the recent earthquake, stating, “While 5.7 magnitude earthquakes are significant, they often produce stronger shaking due to their shallow depth. However, the impact can vary depending on local geological conditions.”
He further emphasized the importance of preparedness and public awareness in mitigating potential risks associated with seismic activity: “It is crucial for residents to remain calm during such events and follow official guidelines provided by disaster management authorities.”
Conclusion
The 5.7-magnitude earthquake that struck near Dhaka, Bangladesh, on November 21, 2025, serves as a reminder of the ongoing seismic activity in the region. While no immediate reports of injuries or damage were reported from Kolkata and other affected areas, the event highlights the importance of preparedness and public awareness.
