KOLKATA: A powerful earthquake struck India’s eastern city today, sending strong tremors that led to immediate evacuations in numerous office buildings. Reports indicate that the earthquake registered a magnitude of around 6.5, with its epicenter located offshore, approximately 50 kilometers from the bustling metropolis.

Witnesses described a moment of panic as the shaking began; many rushed to exit the towering structures that have come to symbolize Kolkata's skyline. “I felt the ground rolling beneath my feet,” said Pratik Das, a finance professional caught in the middle of a meeting. “We all just stood up and ran to the exits without thinking. It was surreal.” Employees poured into the streets, some still clutching personal items, while others checked in with family via their phones.

Local authorities have initiated immediate measures to assess potential damage, with emergency responders deployed throughout the area. The Chief Minister of West Bengal called for calm individuals during this unsettling time and urged everyone to follow safety guidelines. “We have to ensure everyone’s safety first, our teams are on the ground assessing the situation,” he noted in a public statement.

Though no significant injuries to residents have been reported, several buildings have suffered minor damages, a stark reminder of the region's vulnerability to seismic events. Experts suggest that India sits on a complex tectonic plate boundary, making it susceptible to earthquakes.

This incident serves as a crucial reminder to city dwellers about preparedness in the face of natural disasters. For many, the experience serves as a wake-up call to reassess safety plans at home and work for earthquake response.