Kolkata Shaken by Earthquake During Union Minister's Address
A 5.5-magnitude earthquake originating in Bangladesh sent tremors across Kolkata and neighboring districts of West Bengal on Friday afternoon, causing widespread alarm and interrupting a public gathering. The seismic event occurred at approximately 1:22 pm, with its epicenter near Nayabazar in Bangladesh, about 100 kilometers from Kolkata, according to officials from the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The quake was recorded at a depth of 10 kilometers, lasting for around 10 seconds and prompting evacuations from homes, offices, and government buildings.
Minister's Speech Interrupted by Sudden Tremors
Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar was delivering a speech at a gathering in Kolkata when the earthquake struck. A video from the venue captured the moment as tremors hit, showing lights shaking and Majumdar pausing to ask, "Should I stop?" The incident highlighted the sudden and unexpected nature of the seismic activity, which rattled the city during a routine political event. Despite the interruption, there were no immediate reports of injuries or significant disruptions to the gathering itself.
Widespread Evacuations and Public Response
The tremors led to swift evacuations across Kolkata, with people rushing out of multi-storey residential buildings, offices, and key government facilities. Employees at the state secretariat Nabanna, the assembly house, and the office of the chief electoral officer remained outside for a period, fearing potential aftershocks. Similar scenes were reported in Kolkata's IT hub in Salt Lake, where workers and residents evacuated as a precautionary measure. Officials confirmed that no aftershocks were immediately reported following the initial quake.
Official Statements and Safety Measures
An IMD official provided details on the earthquake's timing and location, emphasizing that it was a moderate seismic event with no immediate loss of life or damage to property reported. Another official added that authorities are monitoring the situation closely, although initial assessments suggest minimal impact. The quick public response, including evacuations, reflects heightened awareness and preparedness in urban areas like Kolkata, which occasionally experiences tremors due to regional seismic activity.
Key Points from the Event:
- Earthquake magnitude: 5.5, centered in Bangladesh near Nayabazar.
- Depth: 10 kilometers, with tremors lasting about 10 seconds.
- Affected areas: Kolkata and neighboring districts in West Bengal.
- No immediate reports of casualties or property damage.
- Public evacuations occurred in government buildings and residential areas.
The incident serves as a reminder of the seismic risks in the region, with experts noting that such tremors are not uncommon but require ongoing vigilance. As Kolkata returns to normalcy, officials continue to assess any potential aftereffects and advise residents to stay informed through official channels.
