A 5.7-magnitude earthquake shook Dhaka and surrounding areas on Friday morning, claiming three lives and leaving several injured, as emergency teams rush to assess the damage.

A moderate but destructive earthquake measuring 5.7 on the Richter scale struck Bangladesh’s capital, Dhaka, early Friday, resulting in at least three fatalities and multiple injuries.

According to local reports, the quake caused the collapse of a railing from a five-story building, killing three pedestrians who were struck by falling debris. Additionally, three people sustained injuries as buildings shook and residents rushed out of their homes in panic.

The epicenter of the quake was located 13 kilometers east of the Agargaon Seismic Center in Dhaka, officials confirmed. Significant structural damage was reported across the capital and nearby areas, with several homes suffering varying degrees of destruction.

Emergency response teams have been dispatched to the affected areas to assist with rescue and relief efforts, while authorities continue to monitor aftershocks.

International media outlets have also reported on the disaster, with Reuters confirming the fatalities and widespread damage, and AP News highlighting the quake’s impact on densely populated urban areas. The Dhaka Tribune noted that local infrastructure, including temporary constructions, suffered severe damage.

This earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic events, emphasizing the importance of rapid response and preparedness measures.(ILKHA)