Delhi, India – October 3, 2023
Delhi-NCR Shaken by 6.2 Magnitude Earthquake
In a startling event, parts of Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) were jolted by strong earthquake tremors on Tuesday, sending shockwaves through the region. According to the initial assessments conducted by the National Center for Seismology, the earthquake, with a magnitude of 6.2, originated at a shallow depth of 5 km in west Nepal, approximately 200 km southeast of Joshimath. These conditions contributed to the intensity of the tremors experienced across North India.
Active Faults in the Himalayan Region: A Cause for Concern
JL Gautam, the head of the National Center for Seismology, commented on the situation, stating, “This earthquake struck an area near active faults in the Himalayan region. The region is highly tectonic and prone to seismic activities. We are currently investigating which specific faults are involved in this incident.” The tremors, lasting for more than 40 seconds, created a state of panic among the residents, prompting many to quickly evacuate their homes in search of safety.
Swift Response from Authorities
In response to the earthquake, Delhi Police promptly issued safety guidelines through social media platforms, urging residents to move to safe open areas while emphasising not to use elevators during evacuation. The official statement on platform X read, “Hey Delhi people! We hope you all are safe. Please come out of your buildings to a safe spot, but do not panic. DO NOT USE ELEVATORS! For any emergency help, dial 112.” This swift communication from the authorities played a crucial role in guiding the public during the crisis.
Tremors Felt Across North India
The impact of the earthquake was not limited to Delhi-NCR alone. Tremors were felt in several other parts of North India, including Chandigarh and Jaipur. However, the Police control room in Jaipur reported no immediate information about losses or damages, indicating that the situation was being closely monitored.
Epicentre Located Southeast of Joshimath in Uttarakhand
The epicentre of the earthquake was identified as being 206 km southeast of Joshimath in Uttarakhand and 284 km north of Lucknow. This location, in close proximity to populated areas, heightened concerns about the potential impact on nearby communities. Seismologists and geologists are continuing their investigations to gather more data about the event and its implications for the region.
As the affected regions assess the aftermath of these powerful tremors, authorities are on high alert, ensuring that necessary precautions are taken and emergency response mechanisms are in place to address any eventualities. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the seismic vulnerability of the region, urging both the public and authorities to remain vigilant and well-prepared for such natural disasters.
