On Saturday, at 12:17 PM IST, a powerful 5.8 magnitude earthquake rattled the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border, sending tremors across several regions in South Asia. The quake, which occurred at a depth of 94 km, was felt in major cities like Delhi-NCR, Jammu & Kashmir, and parts of Pakistan, including Islamabad and Lahore.
This earthquake is the second of its kind to hit the region within a week, following a 5.5 magnitude tremor that shook Pakistan last Saturday.
While no immediate damage has been reported from the affected areas, the tremors left many on edge, with people in Delhi, Srinagar, and other cities describing the unsettling experience.
#WATCH | An earthquake of magnitude 5.8 on the Richter scale hit Afghanistan at 12:17 PM (IST); tremors also felt in parts of Jammu and Kashmir
A local in Srinagar says, “…I felt the tremor. I was in the office when my chair shook…” pic.twitter.com/JvEAuoeoTk
— ANI (@ANI) April 19, 2025
What does this mean for the average person?
For residents in areas like Delhi-NCR and Jammu & Kashmir, the quake was a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity. While no significant damage has been reported so far, the tremors have caused concern about the potential for more powerful earthquakes, especially in light of the ongoing seismic risks.
In Pakistan, where earthquakes are a more frequent occurrence, this latest tremor serves as a chilling reminder of the 2005 earthquake, which claimed over 74,000 lives.
Eyewitness accounts from residents provide a glimpse into the tremors’ impact. “I felt the tremor. I was in the office when my chair shook,” said a Srinagar resident, capturing the surprising yet familiar anxiety that comes with living in an earthquake-prone area.
Also Read 5.9 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Afghanistan; Tremors Felt in Kashmir
Why does this keep happening?
Earthquakes are a regular occurrence in the region, especially along the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border, where the tectonic plates of the Eurasian and Indian plates meet. The region has a long history of seismic activity, with occasional major earthquakes that cause widespread destruction.
Pakistan, in particular, has been hit hard in the past, with the 2005 earthquake serving as a painful reminder of how devastating these natural events can be.
Despite improvements in disaster preparedness, Pakistan remains highly vulnerable due to its geographical location. The risk of another catastrophic earthquake has experts and local authorities on high alert, prompting them to review and strengthen emergency response strategies.
Also Read: After Myanmar Horror, Japan Warns of “Megaquake”—India Could Face Worse
What are the chances of another earthquake soon?
While it’s impossible to predict exactly when the next earthquake will strike, experts have noted that the region’s seismic activity is a cause for concern. Aftershocks from this recent quake could continue for days or even weeks, though they are typically weaker in magnitude.
A region on edge
As residents across Delhi, Kashmir, and Pakistan go about their daily lives, there’s an underlying tension – one that has only increased after recent seismic events.
Earthquakes are a natural, unavoidable part of life in these regions, but that doesn’t make the experience any less unnerving. Every tremor feels like a reminder of the power beneath the surface, and the unpredictability of what might come next.
While the 5.8 magnitude earthquake in Afghanistan didn’t cause major destruction, it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing seismic risks in the region.
For many, this is a call to stay prepared and remain aware of the unpredictable nature of earthquakes. And, as always, it’s a reminder to appreciate the solid ground beneath our feet—when it stays put.
Also Read:Â Building Collapses in Delhi, 4 Lives Lost and Many Still Trapped! Read the Full Story!
