In the early hours of Monday, a strong earthquake measuring 4.0 on the Richter scale rattled the Delhi-NCR region, sending residents into a state of alarm.
The tremors were recorded at approximately 5:36 AM, originating from a depth of 5 kilometers, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). The epicenter was located near Durgabai Deshmukh College of Special Education in Dhaula Kuan, an area known for experiencing minor quakes every few years.
The earthquake was felt across a wide area, including Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, and Ghaziabad. The NCS pinpointed the epicenter at a latitude of 28.59 North and longitude of 77.16 East.
In response to the tremors, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged residents to remain calm and adhere to safety precautions, emphasizing the importance of being alert for potential aftershocks.
“Tremors were felt in Delhi and nearby areas. Urging everyone to stay calm and follow safety precautions, staying alert for possible aftershocks. Authorities are keeping a close watch on the situation,” he stated, reassuring the public during this unsettling time.
The tremors prompted many residents to evacuate their homes and gather outside in the streets, as the intensity of the quake left them shaken. Social media was abuzz with reactions, with users describing the experience as “violent” and “terrifying.”
One individual remarked, “This is the most insane earthquake I have felt in my life,” while another shared, “The scariest few minutes of my life.”
Many reported that the tremors were strong enough to jolt them from sleep, with some describing the sensation as akin to a train running underground.
Delhi Police also took to social media to check on the safety of residents, encouraging anyone in need of assistance to dial 112. “We hope you all are safe, Delhi!” they posted, reflecting the widespread concern for public safety in the aftermath of the quake.
Passengers at the New Delhi Railway Station recounted their experiences, with one stating, “Everything was shaking,” while another likened the tremors to a high-speed train passing beneath them. A vendor at the station noted that the suddenness of the quake caused customers to scream in panic as items began to shake and rattle.
The seismic activity in Delhi is particularly noteworthy, as the city is classified as a Seismic Zone IV on India’s seismic zoning map, indicating a high potential for earthquakes.
This recent quake follows a 7.1 magnitude earthquake in Nepal last month, which also sent tremors through the Delhi-NCR region, although no significant damage was reported at that time.
As the day progressed, authorities continued to monitor the situation closely, and experts urged residents to remain vigilant. The NCS has been actively assessing the seismic activity in the region, and while the immediate impact of the earthquake was felt strongly, there have been no reports of injuries or significant damage to property.
In light of the recent tremors, experts are reiterating the importance of earthquake preparedness, especially in urban areas like Delhi, where the risk of seismic activity is heightened. Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with safety protocols, such as identifying safe spots in their homes and having emergency kits ready.
As the dust settles from this morning’s earthquake, the focus now shifts to ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents of Delhi-NCR. With authorities on high alert and the community coming together in the face of uncertainty, the hope is that the region will remain safe from further seismic disturbances.
