KOLKATA, Feb 27: A moderate yet widely felt earthquake of magnitude 4.9 on the Richter scale struck Kolkata and adjoining regions on Thursday, triggering panic among residents and prompting precautionary evacuations across several neighbourhoods.

According to preliminary data released by the National Center for Seismology, the tremor occurred earlier in the day and was felt across multiple districts of West Bengal. Though categorized as moderate, the shaking was strong enough to alert residents in high-rise apartments, offices and commercial complexes.

People in areas such as Salt Lake, New Town, Park Street and Behala stepped out of buildings as a safety measure. Several office complexes briefly paused operations, while housing societies advised residents to gather in open spaces until the tremors subsided.

Officials from the West Bengal State Disaster Management Authority stated that no immediate reports of serious injuries or structural collapse had been received. However, minor cracks in plaster and superficial damage to walls were reported in isolated locations.

Metro services and local train operations were monitored closely, though no major disruptions were announced. Emergency helplines were activated as a precaution, and disaster response teams were placed on standby to assess any potential damage.

Seismologists note that eastern India falls within a seismically sensitive zone due to its proximity to tectonic fault lines and the Himalayan seismic belt. While a 4.9 magnitude earthquake is unlikely to cause large-scale destruction, authorities have reiterated the need for earthquake preparedness and strict adherence to safety protocols in residential and commercial buildings.

Citizens have been urged to remain calm, avoid rumours, and follow official advisories. Experts are also monitoring the possibility of mild aftershocks, though no immediate warning has been issued.

Further updates are awaited as authorities continue to evaluate the situation.