4.0 magnitude earthquake jolted residents of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) early on Monday
4.0 magnitude eearthquake hits Delhi-NCR and Bihar
Delhi – A 4.0 magnitude earthquake jolted residents of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) early on Monday, leaving many startled and anxious. The tremors, which struck at 5:36 a.m., were centered near Dhaula Kuan, a locality in South Delhi that houses the Durgabai Deshmukh College of Special Education. The National Centre for Seismology confirmed that the earthquake had a depth of 5 kilometers.
The earthquake caused not just the ground to shake but also a loud rumbling sound that could be heard throughout the area. Experts believe this noise may have been caused by the shallow depth of the earthquake, which led to the rapid movement of tectonic plates. The tremors lasted for approximately 35 seconds, making a significant impact on the residents. The suddenness of the event led many people to rush outside their homes in panic.
Social media quickly flooded with posts and videos showing people standing in the streets, shaken by the intensity of the earthquake. Some residents shared clips of fans shaking inside their homes, adding to the sense of urgency. Despite the strong tremors, there were no immediate reports of major damage or casualties, and emergency services such as the Delhi Police and Fire Service did not receive any distress calls related to the earthquake. The situation was closely monitored, but authorities remained confident that no serious aftermath would result from the tremors.
The Dhaula Kuan area, historically prone to low-magnitude earthquakes, has experienced minor seismic activity over the years. In fact, this region had a similar 3.3 magnitude earthquake in 2015. Experts are not alarmed by these frequent, low-magnitude quakes, as they are considered typical for the area. Dr. OP Mishra, Director of the National Centre for Seismology, reassured the public, emphasizing that the region falls within a seismic zone, and these occurrences were natural. He also stated that after the 4.0 magnitude earthquake, any aftershocks would likely be around 1.2 magnitudes weaker, so the event was expected to have minimal additional effects.
While the tremors were unsettling, the Delhi Police and fire services did not report any injuries or significant structural damage. A spokesperson from the Delhi Police urged residents to remain calm and follow safety protocols, particularly since aftershocks could be expected. The police also provided a number for emergency assistance, urging those in need to call 112.
Politicians from various parties also took to social media to express their concerns and prayers for the safety of residents. BJP leader Tajinder Singh Bagga humorously questioned whether an earthquake had occurred, while Congress leader Alka Lamba echoed similar sentiments. Caretaker Delhi Chief Minister Atishi offered her prayers for everyone’s safety, sharing her concern on social media. Arvind Kejriwal, the leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), also shared Atishi’s post, echoing her message of safety and well-being for all.
Many people shared their experiences on social platforms, describing how intense the tremors felt despite the earthquake’s relatively low magnitude of 4.0. One woman from Noida, who was on her morning walk, said she hadn’t felt the tremors much while in the park but noted that others who were outside rushed out of their buildings in panic. The event certainly made people aware of the seismic activity in the region, and many expressed their surprise at how strong the quake felt.
Delhi and its neighboring areas fall within Seismic Zone IV, meaning they are at risk for moderate to strong earthquakes. The 4.0 magnitude earthquake was consistent with the seismic activity of the region, where such tremors are not uncommon, although they are usually low in magnitude. The region has experienced such quakes at intervals of every two to three years.
Delhi
In sum, while Monday’s earthquake left many startled, the situation has been mostly calm in terms of casualties and damage. Experts assure that these small quakes are part of the natural seismic activity of the area, and there is no immediate danger of major earthquakes. Nonetheless, it served as a reminder to stay prepared for seismic events and to follow safety guidelines in case of future tremors.
