Authorities in Bangladesh say at least five people have been killed and around 100 injured after a powerful earthquake struck outside the capital, Dhaka. Local broadcaster DBC Television reported a higher toll of six, including three people killed when parts of buildings collapsed and three pedestrians hit by falling railings. The magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck at 10:38am near Narsingdi, about 33 kilometres from Dhaka, according to the US Geological Survey.
Residents rushed into the streets as buildings swayed, with eyewitnesses describing sudden and intense shaking. AFP reporters said people appeared shocked, while the health department confirmed that three of the dead included a medical student. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department recorded the quake as magnitude 5.7 and said the shaking lasted 26 seconds.
According to reports, this is one of the strongest quakes felt in recent years near the capital. Tremors were also felt across the border in Kolkata, more than 325 kilometres away, prompting residents there to flee homes and offices. Indian authorities said there were no immediate reports of casualties or significant damage.
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The USGS warned of potentially significant casualties and structural damage due to the proximity of the epicentre to densely populated areas. Bangladesh continues to assess the full extent of the impact as emergency teams respond to reports of collapsed roofs and walls in older parts of Dhaka.
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