People in Kolkata and other districts across West Bengal and Northeast India experienced sudden tremors today. The sudden jolts triggered panic, with people rushing out on the streets from their houses, offices, and commercial buildings. You must have felt the spinning vibe if you are from the region. The unexpected quakes felt across parts of West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, and adjoining areas are a clear reminder of the seismic tendencies of the belt. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), Kolkata and different corners of northeast India felt the tremor of the earthquake that hit Dhaka, Bangladesh, at around 10.08 am with a magnitude of 5.7. This is not the first time. Earlier also, the people of this region experienced similar natural calamities with light to moderate effects.
What Exactly Happened Today?
According to initial news reports, residents felt minor to moderate tremors around 10:10, when thousands of people stepped outdoors in panic. In Kolkata, residents and employees in high-rises felt a noticeable vibration lasting about 15-20 seconds. Several office spaces temporarily stopped their lift operations. And, some quickly evacuated their employees.
In the Northeast, Guwahati, Agartala and Shillong in Assam reported mild vibrations. Netizens have asked for confirmation of the earthquake on social media, and the rush of comments and replies went viral instantly. Social media channels saw a flood of posts within minutes, including videos, building footage, and firsthand accounts.
Official Reports & Statements
Early reports from seismological agencies reported an earthquake of magnitude 5.5–5.7 struck near Narsingdi (Madhabdi), Bangladesh, today, Nov 21, 2025, at a shallow depth of about 10 km. Tremors were widely felt across Kolkata, other parts of West Bengal, and the Northeast.
Although the shaking caused alarm, no casualties or major structural damage have been reported in Indian territory so far. Disaster management teams are on alert, and authorities are urging citizens to follow official updates and avoid rumours or unverified information.
Why the Region Felt the Tremors
Eastern India, including Kolkata, is vulnerable to seismic events due to its proximity to seismic-active zones. Although Kolkata is not right at a fault line, its location on the Ganges delta’s alluvial soil can amplify ground shaking, making even moderate earthquakes feel stronger.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh, where today’s quake originated, lies near major fault systems. (Moneycontrol) Such tectonic sensitivities explain why tremors from an earthquake in Bangladesh can be felt strongly in neighbouring Indian states.
A Call on Structural Safety
Today’s tremors show that critical seismic-resilient construction is especially important in crowded cities like Kolkata. Buildings in such areas must be designed to withstand lateral forces, and materials such as earthquake-resistant TMT bars help absorb and dissipate seismic energy.
Given Kolkata’s humid, sometimes coastal climate, corrosion-resistant TMT bars are essential to ensure long-term structural integrity. Using substandard or corroded reinforcement could make even well-designed buildings more vulnerable when jolts hit.
Reactions Across the Region
As the quake was felt:
- Many residents in Kolkata rushed out of their houses and offices, describing the tremors as “intense.”
- Office workers reported lights swaying and furniture shaking; some said the tremors lasted for 20–30 seconds.
- On social media, people shared a mix of panic and relief. They were relieved that the damage seemed limited, but also concerned about their earthquake vulnerability.
- In Kolkata’s hospitals and other public buildings, occupants evacuated briefly as a precaution.
Advice on Safety Measures
Authorities and disaster experts advise citizens to do the following when they feel an earthquake –
What to do During Tremors?
Indoors: Get under a sturdy table or desk; keep away from windows or heavy objects.
Avoid elevators; take stairs if safe.
Outdoors: Move to an open area free of buildings, trees, or power poles.
What to Do After the shaking stops?
Inspect for structural cracks, especially in load-bearing walls or foundations.
Stay updated via trusted sources (IMD, NCS, government alerts).
Do not rush back into buildings before officials declare them safe.
Keep an emergency kit (water, first-aid supplies, a torch, essential documents) ready.
Building a Resilient Future
Today’s earthquake, though moderate, is a powerful wake-up call. Cities like Kolkata continue to develop further, urban planners, builders, and policymakers must double down on:
- Strict enforcement of building codes, especially for seismic zones.
- Use of high-quality materials, TMT bars with both earthquake resistance and corrosion protection.
- Public awareness campaigns, to educate citizens about quake safety and evacuation protocols.
- Routine structural audits for older buildings, to check for vulnerabilities.
Earthquake resistance is not just about reacting when the ground shakes. It’s about proactive investment in safer infrastructure, community preparedness, and strong governance.
Final Takeaway
Today’s incident originated from Bangladesh and was felt strongly across West Bengal and the Northeast region of India. The natural calamity has not had a major impact in India, but it indicates the real and present seismic risk. For residents, it was a reminder to stay informed and ready. For builders and regulators, it’s a call to focus more on building earthquake-resistant structures.