Narsingdi, Nov 25 (V7N) – Narsingdi remains in deep shock following a devastating 5.7-magnitude earthquake that struck the district on Friday morning, killing at least five people and injuring more than one hundred. Authorities confirmed that the epicenter was located between Sadar and Palash upazilas, an area that has since experienced three to four aftershocks within 72 hours, heightening public fear and raising urgent concerns over the safety of unregulated multi-story buildings.
Tragedy unfolded in Gabtali of Chinishpur Union moments after the ground shook at 10:38 a.m. A partially constructed building collapsed as residents rushed out of their homes, causing a concrete sunshade and wall section to fall on Delwar Hossain Uzzal, 40, and his 10-year-old son, Hafiz Md. Omar. Both were transferred to Dhaka in critical condition, where the child died at noon and his father later in the afternoon. The double loss within the same family cast a blanket of grief across the community.
Deputy Commissioner Md. Anwar Hossain confirmed that the deaths occurred across Sadar, Palash, and Shibpur upazilas. The victims included 75-year-old Kazem Ali Bhuiyan of Palash, who was crushed under a mud house, 65-year-old Nasir Uddin who died from a panic-induced stroke, and 45-year-old Forkan Mia of Shibpur, who fell from a tree during the tremor. More than 100 people sought treatment at Narsingdi Sadar Hospital and other facilities throughout the day.
Local residents have raised serious questions about the structural integrity of multi-story buildings in the district, many of which were constructed without adhering to building codes or disaster-resilience standards. Citizens are demanding immediate inspection and legal action against unsafe structures, arguing that the loss of life reflects not only natural disaster but also negligence and poor regulatory enforcement.
During a meeting held on Sunday at the deputy commissioner’s conference hall, the administration assured that all necessary support and emergency coordination would continue through a dedicated control room. Officials also emphasized the importance of public awareness as the region remains vulnerable to additional tremors.
Earthquake Safety Tips (Public Interest):
– Stay outdoors during tremors; avoid standing near buildings, trees, or electric poles.
– If indoors, take cover under sturdy furniture and protect your head and neck.
– Keep essential items ready: water, flashlight, first-aid kit, and emergency contacts.
– Avoid using elevators during and after an earthquake.
– After tremors stop, check for gas leaks, damaged wiring, or structural cracks.
– Follow official instructions, rely on verified sources, and avoid spreading rumors.
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