Earthquake – Moderate Tremor Jolts Kashmir Valley, Residents Rush Outdoors
Earthquake – A moderate earthquake early Monday morning sent tremors across the Kashmir Valley, briefly disrupting daily life and triggering concern among residents. The shaking, though limited in intensity, was widely felt because the epicentre lay within the Valley itself, prompting many people to step out of their homes as a precaution.
Early Morning Tremor Causes Brief Panic
According to officials from the disaster management authority, the earthquake struck at approximately 5.35 a.m. while most residents were still indoors. The tremor measured 4.8 on the Richter scale, a level considered moderate but strong enough to be noticed clearly across large parts of the region. Doors, windows, and household items rattled, startling people awake and leading to a moment of panic in several neighbourhoods.
Epicentre Located Close to Srinagar
Authorities confirmed that the epicentre was located in the central Budgam district, roughly 21 kilometres north of Srinagar. Because the source of the quake was so close to populated areas, the shaking was felt more sharply than similar events recorded farther away. Residents in Srinagar and surrounding districts reported noticeable ground movement lasting several seconds.
Communication Lines Remain Unaffected
As the tremors subsided, many residents immediately reached out to family members and friends to check on their safety. Mobile phone networks remained functional, allowing people to communicate without disruption. While the initial shock caused anxiety, the situation gradually returned to normal as no immediate reports of serious damage emerged.
Authorities Assess Damage and Casualties
Officials said that teams were monitoring the situation and gathering information from different districts to assess whether the quake caused any injuries or structural damage. As of the latest updates, there were no confirmed reports of casualties or major property loss. Disaster response units remained on alert as a precautionary measure.
Memories of Past Earthquakes Resurface
For many in the Valley, the tremor brought back memories of the devastating earthquake that struck the region on October 8, 2005. That disaster, which measured 7.6 on the Richter scale, caused widespread destruction and remains one of the deadliest seismic events in the region’s history. Its epicentre was located in Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, but the impact extended far beyond, being felt in parts of Central and South Asia.
Heavy Losses Recorded in 2005 Disaster
The 2005 earthquake resulted in the deaths of more than 80,000 people and left millions homeless. Entire towns were reduced to rubble, and a large number of residents sustained serious injuries. The scale of that tragedy continues to influence how people in the Valley respond to even moderate tremors.
Historical Seismic Activity in the Valley
The Kashmir region has experienced destructive earthquakes long before 2005. One of the earliest recorded major events occurred on May 30, 1885, commonly referred to as the Baramulla earthquake. With a magnitude of 6.8, it caused extensive damage and claimed thousands of lives. Like Monday’s tremor, its epicentre was within the Valley, intensifying its impact.
Region Lies in High-Risk Seismic Zone
Experts note that the Kashmir Valley, extending towards the Zanskar range in the Ladakh region, lies in an earthquake-prone zone. Tectonic activity in this area has historically resulted in frequent tremors, some of which have caused severe destruction. Authorities continue to emphasize preparedness and awareness to reduce risks associated with future seismic events.