Delhi-NCR Earthquake: PM Modi Urges Calm & Safety Measures

Strong Tremors Shake Delhi-NCR, Residents Rushed Out of Homes

Early Monday morning, a powerful earthquake measuring 4.0 on the Richter scale jolted Delhi and its surrounding regions, sending tremors that woke many residents from their sleep. Fortunately, no immediate reports of damage or injuries have surfaced.

PM Modi Urges Caution

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media platform X, urging people to stay calm and follow safety protocols while remaining alert for potential aftershocks. He assured citizens that authorities are closely monitoring the situation.

"Tremors were felt in Delhi and nearby areas. Urging everyone to stay calm and follow safety precautions, staying alert for possible aftershocks. Authorities are keeping a close watch on the situation," Modi posted.

Epicentre in Dhaula Kuan's Jheel Park

The National Center for Seismology identified the epicentre of the quake in the Jheel Park area of Dhaula Kuan, with a focal depth of five kilometres. Some residents reported hearing a loud noise just before the tremors began.

Experts noted that shallow earthquakes—those occurring at depths of five to ten kilometres—are generally more intense and potentially damaging compared to deeper ones.

Residents Share Their Experience

The tremors prompted many residents in Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad to rush out of their homes in panic.

A woman in her 50s, who was out on a morning walk in Noida’s Sector 20, said, “We were walking in the park and didn’t feel it at first, but the tremor was quite strong. Many people quickly ran outside.”

Naresh Kumar, a resident of West Delhi, remarked that this was the strongest tremor he had ever felt. Meanwhile, Ratanlal Sharma, waiting for a train at New Delhi railway station, compared the experience to a train suddenly coming to an abrupt stop.

In Ghaziabad, a high-rise resident described the situation as chaotic, with people scrambling to get downstairs in fear of aftershocks.

Delhi Police and Leaders React

Delhi Police reassured residents, posting on X, "We hope you all are safe, Delhi!" and advised people to dial the emergency helpline 112 in case of emergencies.

AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal shared his concern for public safety, while Congress spokesperson Ragini Nayak tweeted that the tremors were strong enough to wake her from sleep.

Delhi’s Earthquake Risk

Situated around 250 kilometres from the highly seismic Himalayan zone, Delhi is classified under Seismic Zone IV, making it prone to moderate-to-severe earthquakes. The city has experienced several tremors over the years, including a series of quakes in 2020 and minor tremors in Haryana between 2022 and 2023.

While no major damage was reported this time, the incident serves as a stark reminder of Delhi’s vulnerability to seismic activity. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and urge residents to remain prepared for any potential aftershocks.