Strong Earthquake Tremors Felt Across Delhi-NCR and Northern India, Including Bihar
On the evening of February 17, 2025, a powerful earthquake struck northern India, sending strong tremors through Delhi-NCR and extending to several regions across the northern states, including Bihar. The earthquake, which occurred at approximately 7:20 PM local time, was felt across a vast area, with reports of buildings shaking, public transport halting, and citizens scrambling for safety.
According to the National Seismological Centre (NSC), the earthquake had a magnitude of 6.8 on the Richter scale, and its epicenter was located in Nepal, roughly 250 kilometers north of Delhi. The tremors lasted for about 20-25 seconds but left a lasting impact on the residents of the capital and surrounding areas.
Panic Grips Delhi-NCR
In Delhi, the tremors were felt particularly in the central business districts and densely populated residential areas. Tall buildings in Connaught Place, Saket, and Greater Noida swayed, with office workers and residents rushing out into open spaces in fear. Traffic came to a standstill as people abandoned their vehicles, some of which were parked near buildings that showed signs of minor damage, including cracks in walls and ceilings.
Emergency services in Delhi were quickly mobilized by the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) to assess potential damage and assist any affected residents. While the shaking was alarming, early reports suggest that there have been no major casualties in the Delhi-NCR region. However, many residents reported feeling shaken by the unexpected event, sharing their experiences on social media and seeking reassurance from local authorities.
“I was working from home when the tremors hit. It felt like the entire building was swaying. I immediately rushed outside with my family,” said Rajesh Kumar, a resident of Dwarka. “It was a terrifying experience, but we’re all okay.”
Impact Across Northern India
The earthquake was felt in several states beyond Delhi, with northern India bearing the brunt of the tremors. In Bihar, particularly in cities like Patna, Muzaffarpur, and Bhagalpur, residents described feeling significant shaking, with many rushing to open spaces. As with Delhi, the tremors caused widespread panic but there have been no immediate reports of large-scale damage or casualties in Bihar either.
The tremors were also felt in parts of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and even Punjab. In Bihar, several people were seen leaving their homes and gathering in open fields as a precaution. Reports from Patna suggested that some minor cracks appeared in older buildings, but no major structural damage has been confirmed as of yet.
“The shaking was very intense in Patna. We had to evacuate our office building quickly,” said Suman Rani, an employee at a local bank in Patna. “It was a scary moment, and we are still waiting for updates from authorities.”
Seismologists Warn of Aftershocks
Experts have issued warnings that aftershocks are possible in the coming hours and days. While the earthquake’s magnitude was strong, it was not as severe as some past earthquakes in the region, but its widespread effect has heightened concern among local authorities and residents alike. Seismologists from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) have advised residents to stay alert and avoid panic.
“Given the location of the epicenter and the magnitude of the earthquake, aftershocks are likely, and we urge people to follow earthquake safety protocols,” said Dr. R. K. Sharma, a senior seismologist. “We are closely monitoring the situation to ensure there is no further threat.”
India’s Vulnerability to Earthquakes
India, especially the northern and northeastern parts, lies on the seismically active Himalayan region, where tectonic plates converge. Earthquakes are a frequent concern, and while many buildings in Delhi and other urban areas are built with modern safety standards, older structures remain vulnerable.
The February 17 earthquake serves as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic events, with authorities emphasizing the importance of disaster preparedness, especially in earthquake-prone areas like Bihar and Delhi.
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has assured citizens that emergency services are fully deployed and working to ensure safety. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has also been put on high alert, with local authorities continuing to monitor the situation.
As night falls across northern India, residents remain cautious, hoping that no further tremors will occur. While the immediate aftermath appears to be manageable, the true extent of the damage will become clearer as more reports are received.
Published: 17th February 2025
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