Shallow Earthquake of Magnitude 4 Shakes Delhi: PM Modi Urges Caution
New Delhi: A shallow earthquake measuring 4.0 in magnitude jolted Delhi and surrounding areas early Monday morning, causing strong tremors and momentary panic among residents. The earthquake occurred at 5:36 a.m., with its epicenter located in the Jheel Park area of Dhaula Kuan, according to the National Centre of Seismology.
The quake originated just 5 km below the surface, categorizing it as a shallow earthquake. Such earthquakes, which occur at depths of 5 to 10 km, have the potential to cause more damage compared to deeper ones. Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of injuries or significant destruction.
In response to the tremors, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to the social media platform X to reassure citizens. He urged the public to remain calm, follow safety protocols, and be alert for possible aftershocks. “Authorities are keeping a close watch on the situation,” he stated in his post.
Delhi is classified as Zone IV in India’s seismic zone designation, marking it as a high-risk area for earthquakes. The capital often experiences mild tremors, typically originating from neighboring states or distant seismic zones such as the Himalayas, Afghanistan, and China. While no earthquake above magnitude 5 has been recorded in the city over the past decade, experts emphasize the importance of preparedness due to Delhi’s vulnerability to seismic activity.
The Delhi Police also reached out to residents through a post on X, expressing concern for public safety. “We hope you are all safe, Delhi!” the message read. Authorities advised residents to call the emergency helpline 112 for any urgent assistance.
This recent earthquake serves as a reminder of the need for earthquake preparedness, particularly in urban areas with dense populations. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and adhere to safety measures in the event of future tremors or aftershocks.
