An earthquake of moderate magnitude, 5.1, rocked the Bay of Bengal on 25th February, with tremors felt across several areas, including Kolkata and other parts of Eastern India. Originating in the Bay of Bengal, the tremor was felt in many cities, creating brief moments of panic in residents, but there were no immediate reports of serious damage or casualties.The tremors of the earthquake were felt in locations along the Bay of Bengal, with its epicenter situated shallower in depth. The much-feared shockwaves varied in intensity from Kolkata, located significantly distant from the epicenter. Many residents immediately hurried out of their homes and offices in panic. A flood of social media posts describing sudden jerkings and shudders had begun spreading like wildfire but were not taken very seriously.No tsunami alerts were triggered after the earthquake, as it was not big enough to cause something like that, authorities confirmed. At the moment, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and disaster management teams are monitoring the situation closely. These officials advise people to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information.In Kolkata, the tremors were most strongly felt in high-rise structures; the occupants spoke of swaying furniture and fittings. Similar reports came from other district areas in the region. Local authorities have started to investigate buildings and infrastructure for any potential damage, but at least for the moment, inspections show that there have not been any major signs of gutting at any structural level.A Glimpse Into the Experience of a Resident from South Kolkata: The Water in the Bucket Started Swirling For Sagnik De, a South Kolkata resident, the morning took an abrupt turn. He recollected, “When I was squeezing the toothpaste onto my brush, I saw the water in the bucket swirling on its own.” “At first, I thought I was hallucinating; then I felt the floor slightly shaking. It was surreal.” He was stunned to a point, followed by a few retrospectively. “My mother felt it too; she said the dishes were rattling and that the pans were also rattling a little bit.” Although short-lived, the experience left a sanctioned physical mark. “It’s strange how fast an experience like that can bring you back to reality and ground you. I’m glad it wasn’t stronger and that people are fine.” He reflected endlessly throughout the day about the event that had transpired before he was supposed to head for work. “It serves as a reminder for enthusiasm and gratefulness in your everyday living,” he continues respectfully throughout his day, filled with gratitude.” Earthquakes in the Bay of Bengal are relatively uncommon but not unheard of, given that it is located near the tectonic plate boundaries. Seismologists have raised concern about preparedness, especially in heavily urbanized areas, such as Kolkata, to minimize risks during occurrence.For the time being, life is returning to normal in the affected areas with no reports of injuries or widespread disruption. Residents have been advised to keep themselves updated through official channels and comply with precautionary measures in case of aftershocks or a future seismic occurrence. Stay updated with the latest news.
By Anusmita Bhatta
Reporting for True To Life News Media Pvt. Ltd.