At least 3 dead after earthquake with magnitude over 5.0 jolts Bangladesh | World News

The United States Geological Survey said the earthquake’s epicentre was in the city of Narsingdi, about 40 km (25 miles) east of Dhaka. (File Photo)

An earthquake with magnitude over 5.0 struck Bangladesh on Friday. While the Associated Press (AP) said the quake measured 5.5, Reuters reported the magnitude at 5.7. The US Geological Survey (USGS) placed the epicentre in Narsingdi, east of Dhaka. The quake was felt across central Bangladesh, with tremors also reported in parts of eastern India.

According to Reuters, at least three people died after the railing of a six-storey building collapsed during the tremor. Meanwhile, AP reported at least six deaths, noting that DBC Television attributed three deaths to a collapsing roof and wall, and three more to falling railings in Dhaka.

Residents in Dhaka described strong shaking that sent people running out of buildings.

Reuters quoted a resident, Suman Rahman, saying buildings were “shaking like trees” and staircases became jammed as people rushed down. 

According to Reuters, makeshift structures collapsed and debris from buildings under construction caused injuries. 

AP cited the USGS as saying the quake had a depth of 10 km (6 miles). The agency also noted that although northern and southeastern Bangladesh are known seismic zones, central Bangladesh is generally less active.

Muhammad Yunus, head of the country’s interim government, urged the public to stay calm and avoid rumours. He said authorities were assessing the situation and added: “Everyone is urged to remain alert and not pay attention to any kind of rumours or misinformation.” Further instructions, he said, would be issued through official channels.

(With inputs from agencies)