Dhaka (TDI): A 5.5 magnitude earthquake shook central Bangladesh on Friday morning, briefly halting a test match in Dhaka and leaving at least three people dead in surrounding areas, while some reports suggest the total casualties to be six.
Tremors were felt around 10:38 am local time, prompting panic in the capital and forcing thousands to rush outdoors as buildings swayed for several seconds.
Authorities have reported at least three fatalities, resulting from collapsing structures and falling debris. Emergency teams were dispatched across Dhaka and nearby districts to assess damage, assist the injured, and inspect vulnerable buildings.
Officials said the death toll could rise as reports continue to come in from more remote areas. Construction sites and older multistory buildings appeared to have sustained the disruption, with several injuries linked to falling bricks and railings.
The quake’s impact was felt most visibly at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium in Mirpur, where Bangladesh and Ireland were playing the third morning of their test match.
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Play was suspended for roughly three minutes after the stadium began shaking, sending players, umpires, journalists, and spectators rushing to open ground on the field. Television cameras captured moments of confusion among the players.
Witnesses in the press box described a chaotic scene, with stairwells quickly jammed as reporters hurried down from upper floors.
Many were reluctant to return to enclosed spaces even after the tremors subsided, and security personnel conducted quick checks before allowing the match to resume.
Interim leader Muhammad Yunus expressed condolences to the families of the victims and said the government has mobilized its full emergency mechanism to ensure rapid response. Relief agencies were instructed to remain on alert throughout the day as aftershocks may occur.
The tremor was also felt in parts of eastern India including Kolkata, though no major damage or loss of life was reported.
Seismologists have noted that while the quake was moderate in magnitude, its depth and proximity to densely populated areas caused damage.
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