Delhi Earthquake: 4.0 Magnitude Tremor Jolts National Capital


1. Early Morning Shock: Delhi Feels the Tremors


At 5: 36 AM on February 17, 2025, a moderately strong 4. 0-magnitude earthquake struck the capital city of Delhi and nearby regions. The quake’s moderate magnitude was felt strongly, in part because the epicenter occurred just 5 kilometers below the surface.


2. Epicenter and Immediate Impact


The National Center for Seismology (NCS) said the epicenter of the tremor was near Jheel Park in Dhaula Kuan area of New Delhi. Many residents panicked after the intense shaking started suddenly and forced them to rush out of their homes and buildings.


3. Why Did Delhi Feel the Quake So Strongly?


Several factors contributed to the pronounced tremors:


Shallow depth: The earthquake waves traveled less distance and so the shaking was more intense. This is because shallow-depth waves travel shorter distances and so the shaking is more noticeable and intense.


Urban proximity: Since the event took place in the heart of the city of Delhi, its effects spread very quickly throughout the entire city. It did not remain concentrated in a small area but quickly spread to all areas of Delhi affecting various aspects of urban life and functioning.


The alluvial soil of Delhi amplifies the earthquake waves. So, moderate quakes can be felt more strongly in Delhi than in other areas. The amplification of waves makes moderate quakes feel like stronger ground movements.




4. Geological Context: Delhi’s Earthquake Risk


The city is located at the interface of the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, so it is at a high risk of earthquakes. There are many fault lines in the region, such as the Delhi-Haridwar Ridge and the Delhi-Moradabad Fault, which have caused tremors in the past.


5. Delhi’s History of Earthquakes


A major earthquake, estimated to have had a magnitude of around 7. 5 on the Richter scale, struck in 1720, including in Old Delhi. The quake caused a lot of destruction and disruption to structures and infrastructure.


An earthquake in 1803 collapsed the cupola of Qutb Minar. The cupola was the dome-like structure at the top of the Qutb Minar. The Minar is a historical monument in Delhi, India. It is known for its height and intricate design. The cupola was an important part of the Qutb Minar. It was both functional and visually appealing. The collapse of the cupola changed the look and function of Qutb Minar.


2015: Tremors from Nepal’s 7.8-magnitude earthquake were felt in Delhi.




6. No Casualties, But a Wake-Up Call for Preparedness


No major damage or casualties were reported as a result of the tremor, but experts said that Delhi needs to be better prepared in case of future earthquakes.


7. Earthquake Safety: What You Should Do


According to the National Earthquake Information Center, the safest thing you should do during an earthquake is drop to the floor, get under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on. You should stay away from windows and heavy objects that could fall and hurt you.


For buildings: Ensure earthquake-resistant construction and retrofitting of older structures.


For emergency preparedness, you should have an emergency kit with water, food, and first aid supplies. These items will keep you safe and healthy in unexpected situations or emergencies. Water will keep you hydrated, food will provide necessary nutrition, and first aid supplies are important for injuries or medical emergencies. With these items in your emergency kit, you’ll be prepared for any unexpected circumstances.




8. Government and Public Response


Authorities quickly took to social media to say there had been no reports of major damage, but they urged people to be cautious. Twitter and other social media sites were abuzz with reactions, many of them critical of the city’s earthquake preparedness.


9. What Experts Say: More Quakes Expected?


Geologists said that though the quake was a minor one, it serves as a timely reminder of the need for better seismic monitoring and disaster preparedness in Delhi.

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