On September 11, 2024, a 5.8 magnitude earthquake shook parts of North India, with the tremors being felt as far as the National Capital Region (NCR), including Delhi, Noida, Jaipur, and Chandigarh. The earthquake’s epicenter was located near Dera Ghazi Khan, in Pakistan’s Punjab province, approximately 415 km from Amritsar, India. This seismic event, which occurred at around 12:58 PM IST, prompted a swift reaction from the National Center for Seismology (NCS), which recorded its exact coordinates (31.25 N, 70.52 E) and its depth at 33 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface.
Specifications of the Earthquake, Seismic Influence
The seismic disturbance that was 5.8 on Richter’s scale and was as a result of tectonic movements along the border areas between Indian and Eurasian plates known to have many earthquakes. Despite the earthquake being of moderate intensity, it triggered a widespread sense of alarm across several Indian cities. In Delhi, Noida, and other parts of the NCR, people reported feeling the tremors for a few seconds, which was enough for many to vacate their buildings and rush outdoors in fear. Although there was brief panic, especially in high-rise buildings and offices, the tremors caused no significant structural damage in the Indian regions affected.
Reactions in India and public response
The Indian Meteorological Department and the National Center for Seismology quickly issued updates on the earthquake’s details and reassured the public that no further aftershocks were expected. Emergency protocols were activated in some parts of the affected regions, although the incident required no major intervention. Local authorities in Delhi and other cities closely monitored the situation, prepared to respond in case of any unforeseen aftershocks or secondary seismic events.
Preparing for Earthquakes: What Northern India Should Note
Though not causing great harm, this earthquake is an indication of how prone the northern part of India is to earthquakes, especially Delhi-NCR. The region is situated in seismic zones IV and V, making it highly susceptible to earthquakes. Delhi has experienced numerous tremors over the years, some of which have caused damage, especially to poorly constructed buildings.
This incident reignited discussions about earthquake preparedness in Delhi and other Indian cities. If a stronger quake were to occur, it would result into terrible effects due to very fast urbanization rate and dense population in the NCR.
Despite regulations that mandate earthquake-resistant designs in new constructions, many buildings in India, particularly older ones, may not meet these standards. After the 2024 earthquake, authorities once again urged builders, urban planners, and local governments to prioritize compliance with seismic safety codes, reinforcing structures to minimize the risk of collapse during future earthquakes.
Changing face of Technology and Future Possible Trends
Mobile applications such as “BhooKamp,” which the NCS promotes, have become vital tools for the public, providing real-time updates on seismic activity. These applications support people become knowledgeable but offer suggestions on how to react during an earthquake like taking cover beneath strong furniture and avoiding windows or heavy things which may drop.
Conclusion
The earthquake in Delhi-NCR on September 11, 2024, while moderate in intensity, underscored the region’s susceptibility to seismic disturbances. Though the tremors caused momentary panic, the event passed without significant damage or loss of life, thanks to the moderate depth of the earthquake and the quick response from authorities. However, this event was a lesson on why we need to be watchful all the time, prepare ourselves and also make our buildings able to withstand natural calamities in places like Delhi that are located in a region with high seismic risks. By improving public awareness and enforcing strict construction codes, the country can better safeguard itself against the potentially devastating impacts of future earthquakes.
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