Early Monday at 5:36 AM, strong tremors rocked the national capital Delhi and surrounding regions. The ground continued to shake for several seconds. According to the National Centre for Seismology, the earthquake registered a 4.0 on the Richter scale, with its epicenter located just 5 kilometers below the surface near Delhi.
The tremors were so intense that one could even hear rumbling sounds. Fortunately, there have been no reports of any casualties or damage to property so far.
'Keeping a Close Watch...'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to say, "Tremors felt in Delhi and nearby areas. Everyone is advised to stay calm, follow safety precautions, and remain alert for any potential aftershocks. Officials are keeping a close watch on the situation."
Acting Chief Minister of Delhi, Atishi, stated, "A powerful earthquake just occurred in Delhi. I pray to God for everyone's safety."
Source: aajtak
Sharing Atishi's post, AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal expressed, "I pray for everyone's safety."
Source: aajtak
Delhi Police issued a social media post stating, "We hope you all are safe, Delhi! Dial 112 for any emergency help."
Read More: Where to hide at home? Is it safe to descend stairs in high-rise buildings during earthquakes? Learn protective measures.
Which are the most vulnerable areas in Delhi?
A few years ago, a report from the Ministry of Earth Sciences highlighted that in the event of a powerful earthquake, most areas of the Yamuna floodplains, including East Delhi, would be significantly affected.
Areas like Lutyens, where the Parliament is situated, North Campus of Delhi University, Janakpuri, Rohini, Karol Bagh, Paschim Vihar, Sarita Vihar, Geeta Colony, Shakarpur, and Janakpuri were also deemed high-risk. Delhi Airport and Hauz Khas fall into the second-highest risk category.
In 2014, the 'Liquefaction Vulnerability Map of Delhi', based on soil structure by the Geology Department of Delhi University, indicated that the Yamuna Bank, Pitampura, Uttam Nagar, Narela, and Punjabi Bagh are vulnerable to earthquakes of magnitude 6.5.