5.3-magnitude earthquake shakes Islamabad and nearby areas in Pakistan

Photo : PTI

A moderate earthquake of 5.3 magnitude struck various regions of Pakistan, including the capital city Islamabad, on Wednesday morning, according to reports from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). The United States Geological Survey (USGS) measured the earthquake at a slightly lower magnitude of 5.1. Seismic monitoring authorities reported the quake's epicenter in Afghanistan's Hindukush mountain range, a known seismic hotspot. The earthquake originated at a depth of 220 kilometers, which is relatively deep, making it less likely to cause significant surface-level damage.

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The tremor was felt around 10:13 a.m. Pakistan Standard Time, leading to noticeable shaking across multiple areas, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, and parts of Punjab. As a safety response, people in affected areas quickly evacuated homes and buildings. Eyewitnesses reported brief moments of panic as residents gathered in open spaces, fearing possible aftershocks. Emergency responders and local authorities monitored the situation and have yet to report any casualties or significant structural damage.

Seismologists explain that this region, particularly the mountainous Hindukush range, is prone to earthquakes due to the intense tectonic activity along the fault lines where the Indian and Eurasian plates converge. These fault lines have historically produced numerous earthquakes, some of which have been devastating.

Pakistan has endured severe earthquakes in the past, with one of the deadliest occurring on October 8, 2005. That 7.6-magnitude quake led to the deaths of over 74,000 people and widespread destruction, particularly in the northern regions of the country. The memory of this tragic event remains vivid in the collective consciousness, contributing to heightened sensitivity to seismic activity in the region.

Authorities have advised the public to stay vigilant and avoid panic, as aftershocks can sometimes follow earthquakes, especially in such tectonically active zones. Disaster management teams remain on standby, prepared to respond if necessary.