New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged residents to stay calm and remain alert following an earthquake of magnitude 4.0 that struck Delhi-NCR early Monday morning. He assured that authorities are closely monitoring the situation.
"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 Prime Minister wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
4.0-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Delhi-NCR
According to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake occurred at 5:36 AM at a depth of five kilometers, with its epicenter in New Delhi near Durgabai Deshmukh College of Special Education in Dhaula Kuan.
- No immediate reports of damage or injuries have been received.
- The quake’s tremors were felt across Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad.
- Delhi Police reassured residents, posting on X, "We hope you all are safe, Delhi! Call emergency helpline 112 for any urgent assistance."
Residents React, Panic in High-Rise Buildings
Many residents of high-rise apartments in Delhi-NCR rushed outside their homes, fearing aftershocks. A loud sound was reportedly heard when the earthquake struck, according to officials.
Videos from PTI and social media showed residents standing outside their buildings, discussing the sudden tremors.
Delhi’s Seismic History and Risks
Delhi lies in Seismic Zone IV, a region with moderate to high earthquake risk, mainly due to its proximity to the Himalayan seismic belt.
Past significant earthquakes in Delhi-NCR include:
- 3.5 magnitude quake in northeast Delhi on April 12, 2020
- 3.4 magnitude quake on May 10, 2020, followed by several aftershocks
- 4.4 magnitude earthquake near Rohtak on May 29, 2020, which caused widespread panic
While earthquakes in Delhi are generally low in magnitude, seismologists warn that proximity to active fault lines makes it prone to occasional tremors.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation, and residents are advised to stay prepared and follow safety guidelines in case of further seismic activity.
