Early on Friday morning, a moderate earthquake registering 5.3 on the Richter scale jolted northwestern Kashmir, with its epicenter located northeast of Gilgit. The seismic event occurred at 09:53 PST at a shallow depth of 12 kilometers, precisely at coordinates 36.71°N and 74.44°E. This region is known for its tectonic activity, making such tremors a recurring phenomenon.
The quake was strongly felt across multiple areas including Gilgit, Skardu, Pattan, and Balakot, where residents reported noticeable shaking. Despite the intensity, no casualties or major structural damage have been reported so far. Local authorities and emergency services remain vigilant, continuing to monitor the situation closely for any aftershocks or related seismic activity.
In a significant development, the Pakistan Meteorological Department has urged the public to stay alert and adhere to safety guidelines as aftershocks can follow initial tremors in this seismically sensitive zone. The northwestern Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan region lies along active fault lines, making it prone to earthquakes that can sometimes have serious consequences.
This recent earthquake underscores the ongoing need for preparedness and resilient infrastructure in these mountainous areas. Authorities emphasize the importance of community awareness and readiness to mitigate risks associated with future seismic events in this vulnerable region.
