Mild 4.1 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Kutch Before 2001 Quake Memorial

In the early hours of Saturday, a mild earthquake measuring 4.1 on the Richter scale impacted parts of Gujarat’s Kutch district, sparking panic among residents just as the 2001 Bhuj earthquake anniversary approaches.

Officials noted that the tremor occurred around 1:22 a.m., with the epicentre situated roughly 55 kilometres from Khawda. Villagers reported feeling the shake, prompting many to exit their homes out of fear, especially those in rural locations.

Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of casualties or property damage. However, locals expressed significant anxiety as the quake awakened them unexpectedly.

This tremor is part of a series of recent seismic events. The day prior, a 2.5 magnitude quake was detected near Rapar at approximately 5:47 p.m., its epicentre located near Khengarpar, nearly 19 kilometres from the town.

Later that same night, another quake registering 2.7 was felt in Bhachau, contributing to the unease of residents already on edge from the recent tremors.

Kutch has experienced heightened seismic activity recently. Last December, a 4.4 magnitude quake occurred about 43 kilometres from Rapar, accompanied by over 17 aftershocks. Additionally, on December 26 and 27, the area witnessed four separate tremors, affecting the Rapar region multiple times.

One aftershock on December 26 measured 4.6 on the Richter scale, causing widespread alarm as residents fled their homes, fearing more powerful shakes.

Authorities have reiterated that Kutch lies within an earthquake-prone zone where minor and moderate tremors are frequent. Local administration is actively monitoring the situation, urging residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unfounded rumors.

The recent seismic events have revived memories of the catastrophic 7.6 magnitude earthquake that hit Gujarat on January 26, 2001, with its epicentre near Chobari village in Bhachau taluka.

This devastating 2001 quake, which achieved a Mercalli intensity of XII, remains one of the most calamitous natural disasters in India’s annals. Official figures indicate that over 20,000 lives were lost, approximately 1.6 lakh were injured, and nearly 28 million people were impacted. A staggering 442 villages endured significant damage, with 70 percent of homes destroyed, leaving a lasting mark on the community.