Delhi-NCR Experiences 4.0 Magnitude Earthquake; Here’s Why The Capital Is At High Seismic Risk

The National Centre for Seismology reported that the quake occurred at a depth of five kilometres at 5:36 AM. The official also mentioned that a loud noise accompanied the tremors as the earthquake shook Delhi-NCR.

Delhi-NCR Experiences 4.0 Magnitude Earthquake

A powerful earthquake struck Delhi early this morning, and tremors were felt across northern India. As per protocol, residents hurried out of their homes, with many stating that they had never experienced such strong tremors before. According to the National Centre for Seismology, the earthquake had a magnitude of 4.0 and occurred at a depth of approximately 5 km.

The loud rumbling sound heard during the earthquake may have been caused by its shallow depth, possibly resulting from tectonic plate movements and multiple bursts of energy.

The strong tremors led many residents to rush out of their homes in a panic. Videos capturing people standing outside their houses and ceiling fans shaking quickly went viral on social media. Fortunately, no immediate reports of damage or casualties surfaced.

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Both the Delhi Police and Delhi Fire Service confirmed that they did not receive any distress calls related to the earthquake.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the situation on his X account, urging citizens to remain calm and stay vigilant for any potential aftershocks.

Why Delhi Is at High Seismic Risk?

Delhi falls within Seismic Zone IV, which is considered a high-risk area for earthquakes, as per the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA). This zone experiences moderate to strong seismic activity, with earthquakes typically ranging between magnitudes 5 and 6, and occasionally reaching 7 or 8. However, seismic zoning is an ongoing process and may change over time. Reports indicate that since 1720, Delhi has witnessed at least five earthquakes exceeding a magnitude of 5.5 on the Richter scale.

The Earth's outermost layer, known as the crust, consists of massive solid rock slabs called tectonic plates. There are about seven major and several minor plates, which move at a slow pace, causing deformations that can trigger earthquakes.

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In North India, including the Himalayan region, seismic activity is largely driven by the collision between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. These plates accumulate energy over time, much like a compressed spring, and when they slip over each other, the stored energy is released, resulting in an earthquake.

According to the DDMA website, seismic activity around Delhi is linked to a significant geological feature called the Delhi-Hardwar Ridge. This structure is an extension of the Aravali Mountain range beneath the alluvial plains of the Ganga Basin, stretching northeast toward the Himalayas.

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