Earthquake in Bangladesh Claims Five Lives, Injures Nearly 100

A magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck Bangladesh on November 21, resulting in at least five fatalities and nearly 100 injuries. The tremors caused significant damage in various areas, particularly in the capital city, Dhaka. The disaster prompted immediate responses from local authorities and emergency services.

Reports indicate that the casualties included a child, with three of the deceased killed when the railing of a six-story building collapsed during the quake. Muhammad Yunus, head of Bangladesh’s interim government, confirmed that among the injured were students from Dhaka University, workers from factories in Gazipur, and residents from Narsingdi, the earthquake’s epicenter. Health adviser Nurjahan Begum noted that several injured individuals were in critical condition after being transported to hospitals.

Residents in Dhaka experienced chaos as the earthquake’s tremors shook buildings, prompting many to flee their homes. Witnesses described the scene with alarm, stating, “We felt a strong jolt and buildings were shaking like trees,” said local resident Suman Rahman. “Staircases were jammed as people rushed down. Everyone was terrified, children were crying.”

The fire department reported injuries stemming from bricks and loose cement that fell from buildings under construction. Sadman Sakib, who was at work during the quake, described the experience: “I have never felt such a tremor in my life. We rushed down the stairs and saw other people on the road already.”

In neighboring India, tremors were felt in eastern states bordering Bangladesh, although authorities reported no major damage. Local governments have been placed on alert, and the situation is being closely monitored by the Bangladeshi government. Yunus’ office stated that rescue operations would be intensified in affected areas to assist those in need.

The earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity. As recovery efforts begin, the focus remains on ensuring safety and providing aid to those impacted by the disaster.