Massive Earthquake Hits Bangladesh Today: Latest Updates & Impact Report

Dhaka, Bangladesh — November 21, 2025 — A powerful earthquake struck central Bangladesh this morning, sending shockwaves through Dhaka and several neighboring districts, causing widespread panic, damage, and casualties.

Key Facts & Updates

• The tremor occurred at 10:38 a.m. local time and registered between magnitude 5.5 and 5.7, according to different seismic agencies. (The Daily Star)
• The epicenter was located in Madhabdi, Narsingdi District, approximately 13 km east of Dhaka’s Agargaon seismic center. (The Daily Star)
• The depth of the quake was relatively shallow, around 10–12 km, which amplified the intensity of shaking. (The Daily Star)
• According to local reports, at least 8 to 10 people have died, including children, and hundreds have been injured. (AP News)
• In Narsingdi alone, more than 100 people were injured, many while rushing out of their homes. (Dhaka Tribune)
• Several buildings sustained cracks, tilting, or partial damage, including residential and industrial structures. (The Business Standard)
• In Dhaka’s Old City (Armanitola), a railing collapsed, resulting in fatalities. (India Today)
• The quake triggered panic among factory workers in Gazipur, where reports say emergency exits were locked, complicating evacuation. (The Business Standard)
• At Jahangirnagar University, structural cracks appeared in buildings, including the newly constructed Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmad Hall. (The Business Standard)
• Tremors were felt not only across Bangladesh but also in Kolkata and parts of Northeast India, according to seismic and media reports. (India Today)
• According to geologists, this earthquake may be the strongest felt in Bangladesh in recent years, raising concerns about seismic preparedness. (bdnews24.com)
• Authorities are closely monitoring for aftershocks, and emergency services are actively assessing damage and assisting affected communities. (News on Air)

Human Impact & Response

The quake struck during normal weekday hours, which meant dense urban areas were heavily populated at the time. In Dhaka, buildings swayed violently, prompting people — including students, office workers, and residents — to rush outside in fear. (India Today)

A building railing collapsed in Armanitola, killing multiple people. (India Today) In Narsingdi’s Chinishpur union, debris from under-construction structures fell, injuring several. (The Business Standard)

Healthcare facilities are stretched: NITOR (National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation) has admitted dozens of fracture and fall-risk patients. (The Business Standard) Fire services are also on alert due to reports of tilting buildings and small fires in affected zones. (The New Indian Express)

Expert Analysis

• Geologist Dr. Syed Humayun Akhter described the quake as “the strongest tremor in the country in recent times,” pointing out the region’s vulnerable tectonic setup. (bdnews24.com)
• The quake is believed to have occurred along a fault line on the Indo-Burma tectonic plate, which makes such seismic events particularly dangerous for densely populated regions like Dhaka. (bdnews24.com)
• Experts have raised alarm over Bangladesh’s earthquake preparedness, especially considering the high population density and many aging or poorly constructed buildings. (The New Indian Express)

Government & Public Response

• The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has confirmed the quake’s magnitude and is coordinating with other agencies for further seismic monitoring. (The Daily Star)
• Authorities have issued public safety advisories, urging citizens to stay calm, avoid rumors, and follow official communication channels. (India Today)
• Rescue operations are underway, and hospitals across Dhaka and Narsingdi are prioritizing treatment for the injured. (The Business Standard)
• Fire service teams are inspecting damaged buildings for structural integrity and risk of collapse. (The New Indian Express)

Implications & Risks Ahead

• Given the shallow depth, there is a heightened risk of aftershocks, which could further damage vulnerable structures. (News on Air)
• The earthquake has revived concerns about seismic zoning and building codes in Bangladesh, especially in Dhaka, which has millions of buildings and limited disaster-readiness infrastructure. (The New Indian Express)
• Geologists warn that if a stronger quake (magnitude 7 or more) struck, the damage could be catastrophic due to the city’s population density. (bdnews24.com)
• Long-term measures, including strengthening building regulations, retrofitting older buildings, and public earthquake-education campaigns, are likely to gain renewed urgency.

What to Do Now (Advice for Citizens)

1. Stay alert: Monitor official updates from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department and local authorities.
2. Prepare an emergency kit: Keep essentials (water, torch, first-aid) ready.
3. Inspect your home: If you notice cracks or tilting, consult a structural engineer.
4. Plan evacuation: Know safe spots (open grounds, parks) and escape routes from your building.
5. Stay calm during aftershocks: Drop, cover, and hold on; avoid standing near windows, tall furniture, or broken walls.

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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: What was the magnitude of the earthquake in Bangladesh today?
A1: The earthquake was reported between magnitude 5.5 and 5.7, depending on the measuring agency. (The New Indian Express)

Q2: Where was the epicenter of the quake?
A2: The epicenter was in Madhabdi, Narsingdi District, about 13 km from central Dhaka. (The Daily Star)

Q3: How deep was the earthquake?
A3: The quake had a shallow depth, estimated to be around 10–12 km, which increased its intensity on the surface. (bdnews24.com)

Q4: How many people were affected (killed/injured)?
A4: Reports indicate at least 8 to 10 deaths and hundreds of injuries. (The Business Standard)

Q5: What areas of Bangladesh felt the tremor?
A5: The quake was strongly felt in Dhaka, and panic was reported in other districts including Narsingdi, Gazipur, and several rural areas. (The Business Standard)

Q6: Were the tremors felt outside Bangladesh?
A6: Yes — tremors were reported in Kolkata (West Bengal, India) and parts of Northeast India. (India Today)

Q7: Is there a risk of aftershocks?
A7: Yes, experts are monitoring for potential aftershocks, and citizens have been advised to remain cautious. (News on Air)

Q8: Why was the earthquake so strong despite moderate magnitude?
A8: The relatively shallow depth (10–12 km) and proximity to densely built-up areas amplified the shaking felt by people. (The Daily Star)

Q9: Has Bangladesh experienced similar earthquakes before?
A9: According to geologists, such a strong tremor has not been felt in recent years. (bdnews24.com)

Q10: What measures should residents take now?
A10: Residents should stay calm, follow official alerts, prepare emergency kits, inspect their buildings for damage, and plan safe evacuation routes.