KKN Gurugram Desk | A mild earthquake struck Delhi-NCR early Monday morning, causing panic among residents. The tremors were felt around 5:36 AM, measuring 4.0 on the Richter scale. The intensity of the quake forced many people to rush out of their homes in fear.
Article Contents
Along with Delhi, tremors were also reported in Siwan, Bihar, at 8:02 AM. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) confirmed that the epicenter of the earthquake was in New Delhi, at a depth of five kilometers. So far, there have been no reports of damage or casualties.
Seismic Activity in Delhi-NCR: A Recurring Concern
Delhi-NCR has experienced frequent seismic activity in recent years due to its location in Seismic Zone IV, which is considered a high-risk area. Minor to moderate earthquakes are common in this region.
Experts believe that regular earthquakes in the Himalayan region contribute to these tremors. The movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface creates stress, which eventually leads to seismic shocks.
Details of the Recent Earthquake in Delhi-NCR and Siwan
The earthquake on Monday morning had the following key details:
- Time of occurrence: 5:36 AM in Delhi-NCR, 8:02 AM in Siwan, Bihar
- Magnitude: 4.0 on the Richter scale
- Epicenter: New Delhi
- Depth: 5 kilometers beneath the surface
- Damage Report: No major destruction or casualties reported
Despite the relatively low intensity, the tremors were strong enough to wake up residents and create a sense of panic. Many took to social media to share their experiences.
Social Media Reactions and Government Response
As soon as the earthquake was felt, people turned to social media to express their concerns. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) posted details about the tremor on X (formerly Twitter), confirming its magnitude and depth.
Union Minister Giriraj Singh also reacted to the earthquake. He posted on X, saying, “The earthquake was quite scary. May Lord Mahadev keep everyone safe.”
Why Does Delhi-NCR Experience Frequent Earthquakes?
Delhi-NCR lies close to major tectonic fault lines, making it vulnerable to frequent earthquakes. The region falls in Seismic Zone IV, which means it is at a high risk of moderate to strong tremors.
Reasons for Frequent Earthquakes in Delhi-NCR
- Himalayan Seismic Activity: Continuous movement of tectonic plates beneath the Himalayan region causes stress in nearby areas.
- Delhi-Hardwar Ridge: A fault line passing near Delhi contributes to seismic activity.
- Seismic Zone IV Classification: Delhi is in a high-risk zone, where moderate earthquakes occur frequently.
Experts believe that while small tremors do not cause major damage, they serve as warning signs for potential future earthquakes.
Safety Measures During an Earthquake
Even though Monday’s earthquake did not cause any damage, it serves as a reminder for people to stay prepared. Here are some important earthquake safety tips:
Before an Earthquake
✔ Ensure your home is earthquake-resistant.
✔ Keep emergency kits ready, including food, water, and a flashlight.
✔ Identify safe spots inside your home, like under sturdy furniture.
✔ Educate family members on earthquake drills.
During an Earthquake
✔ Stay indoors if you are inside a building. Duck, Cover, and Hold under a strong table.
✔ Move away from windows, glass doors, and heavy furniture.
✔ If outside, stay in open areas away from buildings and trees.
✔ Avoid using elevators during an earthquake.
After an Earthquake
✔ Check for gas leaks and electrical damages in your home.
✔ Listen to official updates from authorities before re-entering buildings.
✔ Be prepared for aftershocks, as they often follow major tremors.
Are Delhi and Nearby Areas Prepared for a Big Earthquake?
Seismologists have warned that Delhi and nearby states must improve their earthquake preparedness. Many buildings in old areas of Delhi are not earthquake-resistant, posing a risk in case of a stronger quake.
The Delhi government and disaster management authorities are working on strengthening earthquake preparedness by:
✔ Conducting earthquake drills in schools and offices.
✔ Improving building safety norms for new constructions.
✔ Installing seismic monitoring systems to track future tremors.
Similar Earthquakes in Recent Years
Delhi-NCR has witnessed several earthquakes over the past few years. Some notable ones include:
- December 2023: A 5.2 magnitude earthquake shook Delhi, causing mild panic.
- March 2021: A 4.7 magnitude tremor was felt in Noida and Gurugram.
- June 2020: A moderate earthquake of 4.6 magnitude was recorded in Rohtak, Haryana.
These frequent earthquakes indicate that the region remains seismically active.
The earthquake in Delhi-NCR and Siwan on Monday was a mild tremor, but it highlights the importance of earthquake preparedness. While no damage was reported, such incidents remind us that Delhi lies in a high-risk seismic zone.
Authorities and residents must work together to ensure better safety measures, disaster preparedness, and stronger infrastructure to withstand future earthquakes.
For more updates on earthquakes, natural disasters, and real-time news analysis, stay connected with KKNLive.com.
