27 February 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : A powerful 5.4-magnitude earthquake struck parts of Bangladesh on Friday, sending tremors across the border into eastern India, including Kolkata and several adjoining districts of West Bengal. The sudden jolt triggered panic among residents, many of whom rushed out of homes and office buildings as precautionary measures.
According to preliminary seismic readings, the earthquake originated at a moderate depth, which allowed the tremors to travel across a wider region. While the epicentre was located within Bangladesh, the shaking was distinctly felt in Kolkata and districts such as North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Howrah, and Hooghly.
Residents described the tremors as brief but noticeable. In high-rise apartments across Kolkata, people reported feeling furniture shake and ceiling fans sway for several seconds. Office workers in commercial hubs temporarily evacuated buildings as safety protocols were activated.
Emergency response agencies in both Bangladesh and India began monitoring the situation immediately after the quake. Authorities stated that there were no immediate reports of major structural damage or casualties at the time of initial assessment. However, local administrations advised citizens to remain alert and follow standard earthquake safety guidelines.
Seismologists note that Bangladesh and eastern India lie in a seismically active zone due to tectonic movements involving the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate. The region has historically experienced moderate to strong earthquakes, although large-scale destructive events are relatively rare.
In Kolkata, metro services continued operations after preliminary safety checks confirmed no significant damage to tracks or infrastructure. Educational institutions and offices resumed routine activities once it was deemed safe.
Meanwhile, disaster management officials in West Bengal issued advisories urging residents not to panic and to rely only on verified information from government sources. Social media platforms were flooded with posts from citizens sharing their experiences, with many confirming that tremors lasted between 5 to 10 seconds.
Across Bangladesh, authorities conducted rapid assessments in districts closer to the epicentre. While some minor cracks in buildings were reported in certain areas, no large-scale destruction was initially confirmed. Officials assured the public that emergency services were on standby to respond to any aftershocks or related incidents.
Experts emphasize that even moderate earthquakes serve as reminders of the need for preparedness. Structural resilience, adherence to building codes, and public awareness play critical roles in minimizing risks during seismic events.
India’s eastern states, including West Bengal, periodically experience tremors due to their proximity to seismic zones in the Himalayan belt and northeastern region. Though Kolkata is not in the highest-risk seismic zone, it remains vulnerable to tremors originating in neighboring regions.
Citizens are advised to follow key safety measures during earthquakes:
- Move to open spaces away from buildings if outdoors.
- Take cover under sturdy furniture if indoors.
- Avoid elevators during tremors.
- Stay away from windows, glass, and heavy objects that may fall.
Authorities continue to monitor seismic activity to detect any potential aftershocks. Seismological agencies in both countries are analyzing data to provide updated assessments of the earthquake’s magnitude and impact.
While the tremors caused temporary anxiety, the absence of major damage brought relief to residents across the affected regions. Officials reiterated the importance of maintaining calm and preparedness in earthquake-prone areas.
Further updates are expected as detailed damage assessments are completed by local administrations in Bangladesh and West Bengal.
Summary
A 5.4-magnitude earthquake struck Bangladesh, with tremors felt in Kolkata and nearby West Bengal districts. No major damage or casualties were immediately reported, though authorities remain on alert.