A 4.0 magnitude earthquake struck Delhi-NCR early Monday, with its epicenter in the national capital. The tremors, lasting a few seconds, triggered panic among residents.
Key Points:
- Epicenter in Delhi’s Dhaula Kuan, Depth 5 Kilometres
- Strong Tremors Trigger Panic, No Damage Reported
- PM Modi Urges Residents to Stay Calm and Alert for Aftershocks
A 4.0 magnitude earthquake jolted Delhi-NCR early Monday, with the epicenter near Durgabai Deshmukh College of Special Education in south Delhi’s Dhaula Kuan, an official told PTI.
The National Centre for Seismology reported that the quake struck at a depth of five kilometres at 5:36 am. According to officials, a loud sound accompanied the tremors, causing panic among residents, though no damage has been reported.
The rumbling sound during the earthquake may have been caused by its shallow depth, resulting from tectonic plate movement and multiple bursts of energy.
Many people rushed out of their homes in panic after feeling the strong tremors. Videos showing residents standing outside and ceiling fans shaking quickly went viral on social media.
No immediate reports of damage or casualties were received. Both the Delhi Police and the Delhi Fire Service confirmed they had not received any emergency calls related to the earthquake.
The Dhaula Kuan area, located near a lake, experiences low-magnitude earthquakes every two to three years. It previously recorded a 3.3 magnitude quake in 2015, according to officials.
“Delhi has been experiencing minor earthquakes, including this recent one in Dhaula Kuan. In 2006, the area recorded a 4.6 magnitude quake. There is no cause for concern as it falls within a seismic zone. After the 4.0 magnitude earthquake, any aftershock is expected to be about 1.2 magnitude lower, which is a natural process as the region stabilizes,” said Dr. OP Mishra, Director of the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), to news agency ANI.
He noted that the Dhaula Kuan region has experienced 420 shallow earthquakes, while the national capital has remained unaffected by major incidents in recent years.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to stay calm and remain alert for potential aftershocks.
“Tremors were felt in Delhi and nearby areas. I urge everyone to stay calm, follow safety precautions, and remain alert for potential aftershocks. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation,” he tweeted.
Political Leaders Pray for Everyone’s Safety
Several political leaders shared their experiences of the earthquake tremors and prayed for everyone’s safety.
BJP leader Tajinder Singh Bagga posted, “Earthquake?”, while Congress leader Alka Lamba shared a similar message.
Caretaker Delhi Chief Minister Atishi expressed her prayers for everyone’s safety, saying, “A strong earthquake just hit Delhi. I pray to God that everyone is safe.”
Resharing Atishi’s post, AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal added, “I pray for the safety of everyone.”
The Delhi Police also tweeted, “We hope you all are safe, Delhi! For any emergency help, dial 112.”
Many social media users expressed shock over the strong tremors, noting that they were quite intense despite the 4.0 magnitude.
Delhi-NCR lies in Seismic Zone IV, indicating the national capital and surrounding areas are prone to moderate to strong earthquakes.
