A 5.9-magnitude earthquake struck Afghanistan’s Hindu Kush region at approximately 9:50 pm today, sending tremors across Delhi-NCR and several parts of North India. Residents in high-rise buildings reported a strong jolt that lasted for a few seconds, with many expressing their surprise at the intensity of the shaking.
In cities such as Noida, Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Poonch, Srinagar, and Udhampur, people felt the tremors, which were also reported in parts of Pakistan, including Islamabad and Peshawar. The earthquake’s epicenter was located in Badakhshan province of Afghanistan, at a depth of 150 km, a factor that contributed to the widespread sensation of the tremors.
Baldev Chand, a resident of Delhi, shared, “I felt a strong jolt which lasted for a few seconds.” Another user from Delhi noted, “The intensity of the tremors was so high that fans and beds in people’s homes began to shake.” Vaishali Poddar, reflecting on her experience, stated, “I’ve never felt tremors this strong before.” These firsthand accounts highlight the immediate impact on the community.
While the earthquake is categorized as moderate, it is capable of causing noticeable shaking across large distances. Fortunately, no immediate reports of damage or casualties have emerged so far, providing a sense of relief amidst the anxiety following the event.
Afghanistan frequently experiences earthquakes due to its geographical location along the collision zone between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has previously noted that Afghanistan remains extremely vulnerable to natural disasters, underscoring the importance of preparedness in such regions.
As the situation unfolds, authorities are likely to monitor the aftermath closely, ensuring that any necessary responses are swift and effective. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential damage or further developments, but the community remains on alert following this significant seismic event.
