Strong 5.5-5.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Near Dhaka, Killing Several
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A powerful earthquake struck central Bangladesh on 21 November 2025, sending shockwaves through Dhaka and nearby districts and causing at least three to six fatalities, according to multiple sources.
The quake, measured at magnitude 5.5 by the US Geological Survey (USGS), hit at 10:38 AM local time The Bangladesh Meteorological Department, however, reported the shaking as magnitude 5.7, with its epicenter in the Madhabdi area of Narsingdi, approximately 33 km (around 16 miles) east of Dhaka.
Human Impact & Damage
In Dhaka, the quake caused widespread panic. People fled their homes and offices; some collapsed structures were reported. Among the victims was a medical student, according to health officials. Other reports say three pedestrians died when building railings fell.
Roughly 100 more people were injured, many in Dhaka, where walls, roofs, and railings reportedly collapsed or cracked. In one shocking incident, masonry from an eight-storey building fell onto a busy road.
Seismic Details & Wider Effects
The tremor lasted for about 26 seconds, according to the meteorological department. Authorities had earlier warned of the potential for “significant casualties” based on USGS’s PAGER (Prompt Assessment of Global Earthquakes for Response) system.
Tremors from the quake were felt as far away as Kolkata in India, more than 300 km from the epicenter. Despite the intensity, there were no immediate reports of major damage or casualties in India.
Context & Reactions
Islamabad from Dhaka said this could be one of the strongest quakes in recent Bangladesh history, particularly because it struck so close to the densely populated capital. Witnesses described frightening scenes: furniture swayed, and residents said they “felt like riding massive waves.”
Interim government leader Muhammad Yunus urged people to stay calm and avoid spreading rumors while rescue and assessment operations are underway. Emergency teams have been dispatched to survey damage and help the injured.
Why It Matters
- Bangladesh is not typically associated with very high-magnitude earthquakes, especially so close to Dhaka, which heightens concern about building safety and disaster preparedness. The Star+1
- The quake highlights vulnerabilities in urban infrastructure, especially in rapidly growing, densely populated cities.
- It may prompt renewed efforts to strengthen seismic monitoring, enforce building codes, and prepare emergency response systems.
