Shimla, 03 February: In the midst of Himachal Pradesh’s ongoing cold wave, residents were shaken by earthquake tremors in Kullu district on Monday morning. The tremors, measuring 3.4 on the Richter scale, struck at 6:50 am, creating an atmosphere of fear and panic, though no major damage or casualties have been reported. According to the Indian Meteorological Center in Shimla, the epicenter was located at 31.76 degrees north latitude and 77.49 degrees east longitude, deep within Kullu district.
Tremors Felt Across Surrounding Areas, No Casualties Reported
The tremors, which lasted only a few seconds, were mild in intensity, but they were felt not only in Kullu but also in nearby regions. Fortunately, the low magnitude of the quake prevented significant destruction. Authorities confirmed that no property damage or loss of life was reported, which has brought some relief to residents who have been on edge due to the frequent seismic activity in the region.
Ongoing Earthquake Activity in Hill Districts
This incident is part of a broader pattern of seismic activity across Himachal’s hill districts. According to the State Disaster Management Authority, mild tremors have been recorded periodically in other districts such as Mandi, Lahaul-Spiti, and Kinnaur, with no major incidents reported so far. Experts note that Himachal Pradesh is located in a seismically sensitive zone, specifically Zone 4 and Zone 5, which are known for their earthquake susceptibility. As such, tremors are not an uncommon occurrence in the region.
Historical Context of Destructive Earthquakes
While the recent tremors have not caused significant harm, the threat of a devastating earthquake in Himachal Pradesh remains. The state has witnessed destructive earthquakes in its history, the most notable being the 1905 earthquake in Kangra and Chamba districts, which led to the loss of over 10,000 lives and caused widespread devastation. Despite this, the administration remains vigilant and prepared, as evidenced by the swift response and lack of casualties in Kullu this time.
The frequent tremors serve as a reminder of the ongoing seismic risks in the region, highlighting the importance of disaster preparedness and awareness among the public to mitigate potential future hazards.