Earthquake tremors felt in Islamabad, parts of K-P

Islamabad: Earthquake tremors are felt in many parts of Punjab and K-p on Friday. According to the Seismological Center, the quake measured 5.5 on the Richter scale. The earthquake struck at a depth of 12 kilometers underground, with its epicenter located 60 kilometer north of Rawalpindi, Punjab.

Strong jolts were experienced in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and nearby areas, while several cities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, Swat, Mardan, and Swabi, also reported tremors. Other affected areas included Haripur, Abbottabad, Attock, Gujar Khan, Hasan Abdal, Mianwali, and Gujranwala. Particularly intense tremors were felt in Fateh Jang, Taxila, and Wah Cantt.

In addition, tremors were also reported in Lahore, Gujrat, Faisalabad, and several other parts of Punjab, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab.

In response to the tremors, many residents hurriedly left their homes and workplaces, reciting the Kalma Tayyaba, a declaration of faith in Islam. No immediate reports of damage or casualties have been received so far.

According to the PDMA spokesperson, the earthquake was recorded at 5.5 on the Richter scale, with its epicenter northwest of Rawalpindi and a depth of 12 kilometers.

The Director General (DG) of PDMA stated that administrative teams across Punjab are currently inspecting buildings for structural integrity and safety. So far, no reports of loss of life or property have been received from any area of the province.

To handle potential aftershocks, machinery and response teams have been kept on high alert, the DG added. The PDMA Provincial Control Room, along with District Emergency Operation Centers across Punjab, is on 24/7 alert.

Citizens are advised to report any damages or incidents related to the earthquake to PDMA’s helpline 1129, the spokesperson urged.

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