Kolkata: Mild panic gripped the City of Joy on Thursday after earthquake tremors measuring 4.9 on the Richter scale were felt across Kolkata. The quake, which originated in Bangladesh, sent residents rushing out of homes, offices and schools as buildings shook briefly.

In several parts of the city — known for its old structures and densely packed buildings — people hurried into open spaces as a precaution. Many also shared screenshots of earthquake alerts received on their mobile phones.

Eyewitnesses reported that occupants of apartment complexes and commercial buildings evacuated immediately after feeling the tremors. Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar, who was addressing a public gathering at the time, paused his speech as the tremor was felt at the venue.

A 63-year-old woman said she noticed her rocking chair swaying on its own and a ceiling fan moving despite being switched off. “It continued for five minutes,” she said.

Officials, however, clarified that the tremors lasted only a few seconds. The continued movement of objects may have been due to residual motion after the initial shock.

No immediate reports of damage or injuries were received.