DHAKA, Bangladesh -- A strong, 5.5-magnitude earthquake shook central Bangladesh on Friday, killing at least eight people and leaving more than 300 injured, authorities and local media said. Buildings in the country's capital, Dhaka, swayed in the temblor, sending panicked residents into the streets.

If the earthquake had lasted just 5-7 seconds longer, the number of casualties and building collapses could have increased manifold, experts say

The quake was called an 'alarm bell' for Dhaka as experts believe that a massive earthquake is inevitable there.

It was a Friday morning. The clock showed 10:38 AM. Since it was the weekly holiday, many working people were still asleep.

Officials reported no casualties or damage, though thousands of residents rushed outdoors as tremors were felt for several seconds.

Speaking to INDIA TV, community members said temples are being desecrated, religious practices disrupted, and homes targeted, with harassment extending to public spaces.

The sentence to death against Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for crimes against humanity is seen as a chance for national healing after the violent uprising last year that killed hundreds and ended her 15-year rule.