Full Breakdown
Deadly Earthquake Strikes Bangladesh, Casualties Rise
11/23/2025, 11:25:22 AM
Overview of the Earthquake Event
On November 21, 2025, a magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck Bangladesh, with its epicenter located near the Narsingdi district, approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) from the capital, Dhaka. The earthquake resulted in at least ten fatalities, including one child, and left over 450 individuals injured across the country. Eyewitness accounts describe widespread panic as residents fled buildings that shook violently, leading to injuries from stampedes and falling debris.
Casualties and Damage Reports
Initial reports indicated five deaths, but subsequent updates revealed that the toll had risen to ten. The casualties included students from Dhaka University and factory workers in Gazipur. Notably, three individuals died when a railing collapsed from a six-storey building in Dhaka's Armanitola area. Health adviser Nurjahan Begum reported that several injured individuals were in critical condition, particularly those transported from Narsingdi.
Eyewitness Accounts
Residents across Dhaka described the earthquake as unprecedented. Sadman Sakib, a local office worker, recounted, "I have never felt such a tremor in my life," emphasizing the suddenness and intensity of the shaking. Another resident, Shahnaj Parvin, expressed ongoing fear following aftershocks, stating, "I don’t feel safe yet... Maybe we are next." Many reported furniture shaking and staircases becoming congested as people rushed to evacuate.
Government Response and Emergency Measures
In response to the disaster, the Bangladesh government activated its emergency operation center to assess damage and coordinate rescue efforts. Muhammad Yunus, head of the interim government, confirmed that authorities were monitoring the situation closely and had directed departments to intensify rescue operations in affected areas. The government also reported that tremors were felt in eastern states of neighboring India, although no significant damage was reported there.
Aftershocks and Ongoing Concerns
Following the initial earthquake, a minor aftershock measuring 3.3 in magnitude was recorded on November 22, further heightening fears among residents. Omar Faruq from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department noted that aftershocks are common after significant earthquakes, and the country's geography makes it particularly vulnerable to seismic activity. Rubayet Kabir from the Meteorological Department emphasized the historical context, stating, "There has been no massive earthquake in the last 100 years or more, but Bangladesh has been vulnerable for quite some time."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the government's swift response, some residents expressed dissatisfaction with the preparedness for such natural disasters. Concerns have been raised about the structural integrity of buildings in Dhaka, particularly those under construction, which contributed to injuries during the earthquake.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We felt a strong jolt and buildings were shaking like trees,” — Suman Rahman, Dhaka Resident
- “I never felt anything like this in my whole life … I felt like riding on a boat, riding massive waves one after another,” — Anonymous Resident
- “Sarker told the BBC: "Our main task at the moment is to assess casualties and damage.” — Nitai Chandra De Sarkar, Monitoring Division Director
The earthquake has left a lasting impact on the community, prompting discussions about building safety and disaster preparedness in a region prone to seismic activity.
