Strong tremors were felt across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) early Thursday morning, following a 4.4 magnitude earthquake centered in Haryana’s Jhajjar district.
The quake, which struck at 9:04 AM, had a depth of 10 kilometers, according to the National Institute of Seismology.
Widespread Impact Across NCR and Beyond
Residents across various parts of Delhi, Noida, and Gurugram reported feeling significant tremors. Many described it as the longest quake they had ever experienced. Household items such as ceiling fans swayed noticeably, prompting people to evacuate buildings as a precaution. Office-goers in high-rise buildings also felt the tremors, leading some to step outside to safety.
The tremors extended beyond Delhi, shaking parts of Haryana including Gurugram, Rohtak, Dadri, and Bahadurgarh, and reached as far as Meerut and Shamli in western Uttar Pradesh, around 200 kilometers from the epicentre.
Social Media Reactions & NDRF Advisory
Shortly after the quake, social media platforms flooded with posts from people sharing their experiences. Many highlighted the unusual duration of the tremors and their initial confusion before realizing it was an earthquake.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) quickly issued an advisory:
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Do not panic.
Avoid elevators and use stairs if evacuating.
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If driving, stop the vehicle in an open space and wait until the tremors subside.
Why Delhi is Prone to Earthquakes
Delhi lies in Seismic Zone IV, which denotes a high risk of seismic activity. The region sits close to multiple active fault lines including:
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Delhi-Haridwar Ridge
Sohna Fault
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Delhi-Moradabad Fault
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Mahendragarh-Dehradun Fault
According to the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), the seismicity in northern India stems from the ongoing collision between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This process causes the Earth's crust to store energy, which is released during an earthquake.
Historical Context
Since 1720, Delhi has experienced at least five significant earthquakes above 5.5 magnitude, underscoring the seismic vulnerability of the capital.
Stay Safe: As Delhi continues to face earthquake risks, preparedness and awareness are key. Make sure your household has a safety plan, and always follow guidelines issued by official agencies during such events.
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