Earthquake of magnitude 5.9 strikes Afghanistan; tremors felt in Delhi-NCR

Tremors were felt across several parts of North India and Jammu and Kashmir on Friday (April 03) after a 5.9-magnitude earthquake struck the region, triggering brief panic among residents. People in multiple areas reported feeling the ground shake, according to social media posts.

The tremors, recorded at around 9:50 pm, were experienced across several cities, including Noida, Chandigarh, Ludhiana in Punjab, and Poonch, Srinagar, and Udhampur in Jammu and Kashmir, among other areas.

There have been no immediate reports of casualties or significant structural damage. However, the shallow depth of the quake caused noticeable shaking in high-rise buildings in Noida and Delhi, leading to brief moments of panic as residents evacuated to open spaces. Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir are currently monitoring the situation for any reported damage in remote mountainous areas.

Earthquakes do's and don'ts
Do’sRepair deep plaster cracks in ceilings and foundations; seek expert advice if there are structural defects.

1. Anchor overhead lighting fixtures securely to the ceiling.
2. Follow BIS codes relevant to your area for safe building standards.
   Fasten shelves firmly to walls.
3. Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.
4. Drop to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops.
5. If no shelter is nearby, cover your face and head with your arms and crouch in an inside corner.
6. Stay under safe spots like an inner door lintel, a table, or even under a bed.

Don’ts

1.Do not move unnecessarily during shaking.

2. Do not stand near buildings, trees, streetlights, or utility wires.

3.Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors, and walls.

4. Avoid objects that may fall, such as lighting fixtures or heavy furniture.