- विज्ञापन -
Kathmandu: A 6.1 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal early on Friday, with tremors felt across various regions in India, including Bihar and Siliguri, causing alarm among residents. The National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre identified the epicenter in Bhairavkunda, Sindhupalchowk district, approximately 65 km east of Kathmandu. The quake occurred at 2:51 a.m. local time, leading to panic in central and eastern Nepal.
As of now, the impact of the earthquake is still being evaluated, with no immediate reports of damage or injuries. Social media shared videos of buildings and ceiling fans shaking in places like Patna, Sikkim, and Darjeeling. Residents in nearby areas of India and Tibet also reported feeling the tremors.
In addition, a separate earthquake measuring 4.5 occurred in Pakistan around 5:14 a.m. on the same day. Nepal is situated in a highly active seismic zone, classified as Seismic Zones IV and V, which makes it prone to earthquakes. The Indian tectonic plate is pushing into the Eurasian plate at about 5 cm per year, causing significant stress beneath the Earth’s surface. When this stress exceeds the strength of the rocks, it results in earthquakes, explaining the frequent seismic activity in the region.
Nepal’s geological makeup, characterized by young and unstable rock formations, intensifies the effects of earthquakes. The high population density in urban areas like Kathmandu, coupled with poor construction practices, heightens the risk of casualties and damage. The devastating 2015 earthquake, which reached a magnitude of 7.8, resulted in over 9,000 deaths and significant destruction of buildings.
Due to this history, even moderate earthquakes raise concerns about aftershocks and potential long-term impacts. Authorities have advised residents to remain vigilant for possible aftershocks, as they are common following major seismic events. Nepal’s disaster response teams are actively monitoring the situation, and further updates will be provided as assessments continue.
The German Research Center for Geosciences recorded the earthquake at a slightly lower magnitude of 5.6 and a depth of 10 km (6.21 miles), indicating some discrepancies in seismic readings. Regardless of the exact magnitude, this event underscores Nepal’s vulnerability to earthquakes and the critical need for preparedness.
