A moderate earthquake measuring 4.7 on the Richter scale struck the Kashmir region on Tuesday, sending tremors across several districts and prompting residents to rush outdoors in panic. The quake occurred at a shallow depth, which intensified the shaking felt on the surface, though no immediate reports of casualties or major structural damage have been confirmed so far.
According to seismic monitoring agencies, the tremor was recorded in the late morning hours, with its epicentre located in the seismically active Himalayan belt. Residents in Srinagar, Anantnag, Baramulla, and parts of north Kashmir reported feeling strong vibrations lasting a few seconds. Ceiling fans swayed, windows rattled, and household items shifted, causing momentary fear among people at homes, offices, and schools.
Local authorities said emergency response teams were put on alert as a precautionary measure. District administrations asked citizens to remain calm while officials conducted assessments of public buildings, hospitals, schools, and key infrastructure. “There is no report of loss of life or serious damage as of now. Field teams are verifying the situation on the ground,” an official from the disaster management department said.
Kashmir lies in Seismic Zone IV, making it vulnerable to earthquakes due to the ongoing collision between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. Experts note that moderate tremors are relatively common in the region, though each event serves as a reminder of the area’s high seismic risk.
Seismologists explained that while a 4.7-magnitude earthquake is generally not destructive, shallow-focus quakes can feel stronger and cause minor cracks in weak or poorly constructed buildings. They also warned of the possibility of mild aftershocks, advising residents to stay alert but not panic.
Hospitals across the Valley reported no influx of injured patients linked to the quake. School authorities in some areas briefly moved students to open grounds as a safety drill, while office work resumed shortly after the tremors subsided.
On social media, several residents shared experiences of the shaking, with many describing it as “sudden but brief.” Some users posted videos of swaying lights and fans, while others expressed relief that the quake did not escalate into a stronger event.
Disaster management experts reiterated standard safety advice: stay away from windows and heavy furniture during tremors, avoid elevators, and move to open areas if outdoors. Authorities also urged people not to spread rumours or unverified information that could trigger unnecessary panic.
While the situation remains calm, officials continue to monitor seismic activity closely. The latest tremor has once again underscored the importance of earthquake preparedness and resilient infrastructure in Kashmir, a region that has historically experienced damaging seismic events.
