A 4.0-magnitude earthquake jolted Delhi and its surrounding regions early Monday morning, causing widespread alarm among residents. The tremors, felt at approximately 5:36 AM, prompted many to evacuate their homes and gather in open areas.
According to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake’s epicenter was located near Durgabai Deshmukh College of Special Education in Dhaula Kuan, at a shallow depth of 5 kilometers.
Immediate Impact and Public Response
The sudden tremors led to a flurry of reactions across the National Capital Region (NCR), including areas such as Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad. Residents reported intense shaking, with many describing the experience as unprecedented.
At the New Delhi Railway Station, passengers awaiting their trains recounted moments of confusion and fear. One passenger noted, “I was in the waiting lounge and suddenly around 5:36 AM we felt really strong tremors. We felt as if the bridge was collapsing.” Another added, “It felt like a train was running underground… Everything was shaking.”
In residential areas, the response was similar. A resident of Noida mentioned, “At 5:35 AM, the whole building was shaking… Our whole family ran outside the home. I have never felt such strong tremors of an earthquake. We are all safe.” Another individual from Ghaziabad shared, “The earthquake was quite strong. Everyone got scared. We felt it around 5:30 and came down immediately.”
Official Statements and Safety Measures
In the aftermath of the quake, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to urge calm. He posted, “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.”
The Delhi Police also reached out to the public, stating, “We hope you all are safe, Delhi! For any emergency help #Dial112.” Meanwhile, Atishi, Delhi’s acting Chief Minister, expressed her concerns: “A strong earthquake just hit Delhi. I pray to God that everyone is safe.”
Understanding the Intensity of the Tremors
Despite its moderate magnitude, the earthquake’s impact felt particularly strong to many residents. This heightened perception is attributed to the quake’s shallow depth and its epicenter being within the city limits. Shallow earthquakes, especially those centered in densely populated urban areas, tend to produce more noticeable shaking.
As Dr. O.P. Mishra, Director of the National Center for Seismology, explained, “The epicenter was at Jheel Park in Dhaula Kuan… It was in the depth of 5 km, it is called shallow depth, hence people felt the effect.”
Delhi’s geographical positioning further contributes to its seismic sensitivity. Situated approximately 250 kilometers from the seismically active Himalayan collision zone, the city frequently experiences tremors from both distant and local seismic events. The National Capital Region is classified under Seismic Zone IV, indicating a high risk of seismic activity.
Historical Context and Preparedness
The Dhaula Kuan area, identified as the epicenter of this recent quake, has a history of minor seismic events. In 2015, the region experienced a 3.3-magnitude earthquake. These recurrent events underscore the importance of preparedness and adherence to safety protocols.
Residents are advised to familiarize themselves with earthquake safety measures, such as:
- During Tremors: Drop to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops.
- After Tremors: Check for injuries, inspect for structural damages, and stay updated through official channels.
Awareness and readiness can significantly mitigate the risks associated with such natural events.
Monday’s earthquake serves as a poignant reminder of Delhi’s vulnerability to seismic activities. While no casualties or significant damages have been reported, the event has reignited discussions on urban preparedness and infrastructure resilience. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, and residents are encouraged to stay informed and prioritize safety.
By – Nikita
Also Read – Power Struggle Between Delhi’s Chief Minister and the Centre
