SRINAGAR: A strong earthquake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale struck the Hindu Kush region near the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border on Friday night, sending tremors across large parts of North India and triggering panic among residents in Chandigarh and the tricity region.
According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake occurred at around 9:46 pm IST. The epicentre was located in the Hindu Kush region at coordinates 36.52° North and 71.01° East, with a focal depth of 75 kilometres.
The tremors were felt across Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula, prompting residents, particularly those living in high-rise apartments and multi-storey housing societies, to rush out of their homes and gather in open spaces as a precautionary measure.
Seismologists said the earthquake’s significant depth enabled the tremors to travel across a vast geographical area, making them perceptible in several northern states despite the epicentre being located hundreds of kilometres away.
Authorities said there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage to property in Chandigarh or the surrounding region. Officials continued to monitor the situation, while disaster management agencies remained on alert.
The earthquake also triggered concern among residents in other parts of North India, where mild to moderate tremors were reported. However, there were no reports of any major disruption or structural damage till the filing of this report.
The NCS urged people to remain calm and follow standard safety protocols during seismic events, including moving to open areas and avoiding elevators during tremors.
