Tremors in Delhi and Northern India as 6.1 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Afghanistan
Written by Sanjay Kumar
News Highlights
- Earthquake Shakes Delhi and North India: Mild tremors felt after a 6.1 magnitude quake hits Afghanistan, causing panic.
- No Immediate Damage: Despite intensity, no reports of injuries or destruction provide relief to affected areas.
- Afghanistan’s Seismic Risk: Vulnerable housing structures amplify risk; previous earthquakes claimed over 1,000 lives, emphasizing the need for preparedness.
In a startling turn of events, Delhi and parts of northern India experienced mild tremors this afternoon (January 11) following a 6.1 magnitude earthquake that struck Afghanistan. The seismic activity was also felt in neighboring Pakistan, causing panic among the residents.
The National Center for Seismology reported, “Earthquake of Magnitude: 6.1, Occurred on 11-01-2024, 14:50:24 IST, Lat: 36.48 & Long: 70.45, Depth: 220 Km, Location: Afghanistan.” The epicenter of the quake was identified as being 241 kilometers northeast of Kabul.
Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of injuries or destruction in the wake of the earthquake. However, the tremors prompted widespread panic, with reports of people feeling the ground shake and furniture vibrating in the national capital and surrounding areas.
Earthquakes are not uncommon in Afghanistan, especially in the western and central regions where the Arabian and Eurasian tectonic plates collide. The country’s vulnerability to seismic activity is exacerbated by the prevalence of homes constructed from mud and wooden support poles, lacking steel or concrete reinforcement.
The multi-generational extended families that often inhabit these structures face increased risk during significant earthquakes, as witnessed by a series of tremors last year that claimed over 1,000 lives.
As authorities assess the situation and residents remain on edge, the seismic event serves as a stark reminder of the geographical challenges faced by regions prone to earthquakes and the urgent need for preparedness measures to minimize potential devastation.
