Feb 27 • 08:10 UTC 🇮🇳 India Aaj Tak (Hindi)

Kolkata shaken by earthquake, magnitude 5.5, people evacuated from homes and offices

An earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter scale shook Kolkata, causing panic and prompting evacuations.

Kolkata experienced tremors from an earthquake with a magnitude of 5.5 on the Richter scale, leading to widespread panic among residents. People rushed out of their homes and offices in fear, although early reports indicate no significant loss of life or property. The earthquake's epicenter was identified to be in Bangladesh, approximately 10 kilometers deep and about 100 kilometers north of Kolkata.

Witnesses reported furniture shaking and buildings swaying during the tremors, which lasted only a few seconds. In response to the earthquake, many office employees evacuated their workplaces as a precaution and gathered in open spaces. Videos emerged showing groups of people congregated in outdoor areas following the quake, highlighting the immediate impact on public behavior and concern for safety in the metropolitan area.

The event underscores the need for preparedness in earthquake-prone regions, especially considering the urban density of Kolkata. Authorities will likely assess the situation further to ensure public safety and check for any delayed reports of structural damage or injuries. While no severe consequences have been reported yet, the incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with seismic activity in the region.

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