New Delhi, April 4: A 5.9 magnitude earthquake struck late on the night of March 3, sending tremors across Delhi-NCR and several parts of North India, prompting residents to rush out of homes and workplaces. No casualties or major damage were reported in the immediate aftermath.
According to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, the earthquake occurred at 9:42:57 pm IST with its epicentre located in Afghanistan at a depth of 150 kilometres.
The tremors were widely felt across the National Capital Region, including Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad, and Faridabad. Reports of shaking also came in from parts of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and adjoining regions.
Residents described sudden jolts that caused furniture and hanging objects to sway. Many said the tremors lasted only a few seconds but were strong enough to be distinctly felt indoors. In several neighbourhoods, people stepped out of their homes as a precaution, while office buildings saw brief evacuations as occupants moved to open spaces.
Despite the widespread panic, there were no immediate reports of injuries or structural damage. Authorities have yet to issue a detailed advisory, though the basic parameters of the earthquake have been confirmed.
The Delhi-NCR region falls under Seismic Zone IV, categorised as a high-risk area for earthquakes. This makes it susceptible to tremors originating even from distant seismic activity, often triggering swift public response.
Emergency services remained on alert following the tremors, although no distress calls related to damage were reported initially. Officials advised residents to remain calm and adhere to standard safety protocols in the event of aftershocks.
North India’s vulnerability to seismic activity is linked to its proximity to the Himalayan belt, one of the most active tectonic zones globally. Experts have repeatedly emphasised the need for preparedness and strict adherence to building safety standards in such regions.
Social media platforms were flooded with posts from residents sharing their experiences, with many describing the tremors as sudden and unsettling. Some reported noticeable shaking of ceiling fans and furniture, while others said they felt vibrations while seated or lying down.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation, with further updates expected as more information becomes available.
