Moderate Earthquake Strikes Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Northern Regions
No Casualties or Damage Reported; Tremors Felt Across Multiple Areas
Earthquake Details
A moderate earthquake measuring 4.8 on the Richter scale struck Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and several northern regions of Pakistan on Saturday night. The quake occurred at approximately 10:48 p.m. local time, with its epicentre located 15 kilometres southeast of Rawalpindi at a depth of 17 kilometres, according to the National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC).
Areas Affected
Tremors were felt in multiple regions, including:
- Punjab: Murree, Chakwal, Gujar Khan, Taxila, Kahuta, Jhelum, and Kallar Syedan.
- Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK): Balouch, Dhirkot, Samahni, and Bhanbar.
Residents reported light shaking, prompting many to rush out of their homes and buildings in panic. Social media platforms were flooded with posts from people sharing their experiences of the tremors.
Emergency Response
Local authorities and emergency response teams were put on high alert following the quake. While no casualties or structural damage have been reported, officials have advised the public to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols. Patrols by emergency services have been increased to monitor for any aftershocks or related incidents.
Seismic Activity in the Region
Pakistan lies on the boundary of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it a seismically active region. The northward movement of the Indian plate frequently causes earthquakes in the area.
Recent Earthquakes
- In November 2024, a 5.3-magnitude earthquake jolted Islamabad and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with its epicentre in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan.
- On January 5, 2025, a 3.6-magnitude earthquake struck Balochistan’s Qalat district, causing similar panic among residents.
The 4.8-magnitude earthquake caused momentary panic but resulted in no casualties or property damage. Authorities remain on alert, and residents are urged to stay prepared for potential aftershocks. The incident highlights the ongoing seismic risks faced by Pakistan due to its geographical location.