Dhaka, Bangladesh – A powerful 5.7 magnitude earthquake struck Bangladesh on Friday morning, sending widespread tremors across the country and into neighboring regions of India and Myanmar. The quake, which hit at approximately 8:15 AM local time, caused significant panic, sending residents rushing out of their homes and offices.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the earthquake's epicenter to be in the Myanmar-India border region, approximately 17 kilometers east-northeast of the town of Dulai, Bangladesh, at a relatively shallow depth of 35 kilometers. This shallow depth amplified the intensity of the shaking felt on the surface, contributing to the alarm among the populace.

In Dhaka, the densely populated capital, tall buildings swayed visibly for several seconds. Office workers and residents, many still in their pajamas, described feeling dizzy and disoriented as furniture rattled and objects fell from shelves. "I was having breakfast when suddenly everything started shaking violently," recounted Fatima Begum, a resident of Mirpur. "My children screamed, and we just ran out onto the street. It felt like it lasted forever."

Similar scenes unfolded in Chittagong, Sylhet, and Cox's Bazar, where the tremors were particularly strong. In Chittagong, a major port city, there were initial reports of minor cracks appearing in older buildings, though structural engineers were immediately dispatched to assess the damage. Power outages were reported in several districts, largely as a precautionary measure by utility companies, further adding to the confusion.

While there were no immediate reports of widespread casualties or major structural collapses, local authorities confirmed that at least 25 people sought medical attention for injuries sustained during the panic, primarily cuts, bruises, and sprains from falls while evacuating. Emergency services were quickly mobilized, and disaster response teams were placed on high alert.

Geologists have long warned that Bangladesh, situated on several active fault lines, is highly vulnerable to earthquakes. The shallow depth and magnitude of Saturday’s quake serve as a stark reminder of this seismic risk. Experts stressed the importance of adhering to building codes and implementing robust earthquake preparedness measures, particularly in urban areas with high-rise constructions.

"This earthquake, while thankfully not catastrophic, is a wake-up call," stated Dr. Rahman, a seismologist at Dhaka University. "The shallow depth meant the energy dissipated closer to the surface. We must continue to educate the public on 'Drop, Cover, and Hold On' and ensure our infrastructure can withstand stronger events."

By midday, as aftershocks were reported to be minor, life slowly began to return to a semblance of normalcy. However, the memory of the ground shaking beneath their feet lingered, a potent reminder of nature's unpredictable power and the ever-present need for preparedness in a seismically active nation.