February 17, 2025, Delhi-NCR, India
Residents of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) were jolted awake by strong tremors as a 4.0 magnitude earthquake struck early Monday morning.
The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) reported that the earthquake, with its epicenter near Durgabai Deshmukh College of Special Education in south Delhi’s Dhaula Kuan, occurred at 5:36 AM at a shallow depth of five kilometers.
Several residents reported hearing a loud rumbling sound along with the tremors, which lasted for about 35 seconds. Experts suggest noise was likely due to the earthquake’s shallow depth and tectonic plate movements. Many people, particularly those in high-rise buildings in Delhi, Noida, and Ghaziabad, rushed out of their homes in panic. However, there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.
Authorities and experts reassured residents that Delhi, which falls in Seismic Zone IV, frequently experiences minor earthquakes. Dr. O.P. Mishra, Director of NCS, noted that the Dhaula Kuan area has a history of low-magnitude earthquakes, experiencing tremors every two to three years. “This is not unusual. A 4.6-magnitude quake hit the region in 2006. After this 4.0 magnitude tremor, any aftershocks will likely be weaker by about 1.2 magnitudes,” he said.
Delhi Police and the Delhi Fire Service confirmed they had not received any emergency distress calls related to the quake. Meanwhile, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority reminded residents that the city is prone to moderate to strong earthquakes, with past tremors reaching magnitudes of 6-7 in some cases. Seismologist Ajay Paul warned that this earthquake could potentially be a pre-shock for a larger event.
Union Minister for Earth Sciences Jitendra Singh assured the public that authorities are closely monitoring the situation and urged residents to stay calm while taking necessary safety precautions. “Experts from the Ministry of Earth Sciences are keeping a close watch. People should be prepared for possible aftershocks, if any,” he said.
Political leaders took to social media to express concern and prayers for public safety. Caretaker Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal prayed for residents’ well-being, while BJP leader Tajinder Singh Bagga and Congress leader Alka Lamba reacted to the tremors online.
Despite the strong tremors felt across Delhi-NCR, no significant damage was reported. Authorities continue to monitor seismic activity in the region, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in a high-risk seismic zone.
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