Mild Earthquake Magnitude of 4 Jolts Delhi: No Damage Reported, Residents Left Shaken
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kowshik Reddy
In the early hours of February 17, 2025, a 4.0-magnitude earthquake jolted Delhi and its surrounding regions, causing residents to rush out of their homes in alarm. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) reported that the tremor occurred at 5:36 am IST, with its epicenter located near Durgabai Deshmukh College of Special Education in Delhi's Dhaula Kuan area.
The earthquake originated at a shallow depth of five kilometers, which contributed to the pronounced shaking felt across the National Capital Region (NCR). Many residents reported hearing a loud sound accompanying the tremors, intensifying the sense of urgency and fear. Despite the intensity of the experience, there have been no immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Delhi's susceptibility to seismic activity is well-documented, with the city situated near several fault lines, including the Delhi-Haridwar Ridge and the Mahendragarh-Dehradun subsurface fault. The Dhaula Kuan area, in particular, has experienced minor seismic events every two to three years, with a 3.3-magnitude quake recorded in 2015.
In response to the earthquake, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged residents to remain calm and adhere to safety protocols. He emphasized the importance of staying alert for potential aftershocks and assured that authorities are closely monitoring the situation.
The tremors were felt not only in Delhi but also in neighboring areas such as Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad. Residents recounted their experiences, with some describing it as the strongest tremor they had ever felt. Anil Kumar, a resident of Sita Ram Bazar, shared, "When I woke up, I felt a strong vibration and got scared. My wife and I immediately woke up our child and rushed outside."
Seismologists explain that the pronounced tremors, despite the moderate magnitude, are due to the earthquake's shallow depth and proximity to densely populated areas. Dr. OP Mishra, director of the National Center for Seismology, stated that aftershocks, if they occur, are expected to be of lesser magnitude and should not cause significant concern.
As of now, life in Delhi and its neighboring regions is returning to normalcy. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, and residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and follow recommended safety measures in the event of aftershocks.
