Bangladesh Shaken by Deadly Earthquake, Death Toll Rises to 10

A magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck central Bangladesh on Friday, taking at least ten lives and leaving over 300 injured. The deadly quake was felt as far as the Indian city of Kolkata, more than 325 kilometers away, and its aftershocks continue to rattle the country, causing destruction and panic.

Background and Context

The earthquake's epicenter was about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) from the capital, Dhaka, with strong shockwaves radiating into neighboring districts. Buildings in the capital swayed during the quake, resulting in panicked residents fleeing to the streets. Images from the scene showed water gushing out from fish tanks and residents struggling to walk amid the tremors.

Key Developments and Details

The initial quake was followed by aftershocks, the largest of which was a 4.3-magnitude jolt that struck the capital around 6:00 p.m. (1200 GMT), according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department. A 3.3-magnitude jolt was also recorded in Narshingdi district, east of Dhaka, earlier in the morning.

The earthquake and its aftershocks led to a steadily increasing death toll. Initial reports from Deutsche Welle and Al Jazeera English indicated three fatalities. However, as the situation evolved, the South China Morning Post and Corriere della Sera reported seven and six deaths respectively. The death toll further rose to ten according to reports from TASS, The Hindu, and Al Jazeera English, with the victims hailing from Dhaka, Narsingdi, and the suburban river port town of Narayanganj.

Implications and Reactions

The quake and its aftermath have caused widespread damage and left hundreds injured. At least two of the victims were children, and the injured included those who were in buildings that were damaged in many areas, including the densely populated capital, Dhaka.

Muhammad Yunus, the head of Bangladesh’s interim government, was noted in the South China Morning Post's report, indicating the government's active involvement in managing the crisis. However, there were no immediate reports of major damage in the neighboring Indian states that border Bangladesh.

Current Status

The magnitude 5.7 earthquake and its subsequent aftershocks have left Bangladesh reeling, with the death toll sitting at ten and over 300 injured. The country is now grappling with the aftermath of this natural disaster, with recovery efforts underway amidst ongoing aftershocks.