Magnitude 4.4 Earthquake Shakes Delhi-NCR
A moderate earthquake of magnitude 4.4 struck northern India on Thursday morning, with strong tremors felt across Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, and surrounding areas. The National Centre for Seismology reported the earthquake's epicenter was in Jhajjar, Haryana, at a depth of 10 km. The tremors, which occurred around 9:04 a.m., caused brief panic and prompted some residents and office workers to evacuate buildings. No significant damage or casualties have been reported from the event.
Unpacked:
Delhi-NCR lies in Seismic Zone IV, making it vulnerable to moderate to severe earthquakes. Major fault lines like the Delhi-Haridwar ridge and Delhi-Muradabad faults pass through the region, which can generate significant seismic activity. Rapid urbanization, high population density, and varying building construction standards further increase the risk.
Delhi has disaster management plans and building codes for earthquake safety, but enforcement and retrofitting of older structures remain inconsistent. Many high-rise and unplanned settlements are at high risk due to substandard construction. Authorities recommend micro-zonation, public awareness, and stricter building standards to improve preparedness, but gaps in implementation persist.
Residents should practice 'Drop, Cover, and Hold On' during tremors, stay away from windows or heavy objects, and use safe evacuation routes if needed. Afterward, they should check for structural damage, avoid using elevators, and be cautious of aftershocks. Having an emergency kit and a family communication plan is also advised.
Yes, areas with high-rise buildings, unplanned settlements, and older, substandard structures—such as Connaught Place, trans-Yamuna, and certain central business districts—are more vulnerable to earthquake damage. Poorly designed reinforced concrete buildings, especially those with open ground floors, also pose significant risks in a strong earthquake.