Earthquake shakes Islamabad and parts of KP

An earthquake measuring 5.6 on the Richter scale struck parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Islamabad, and Rawalpindi on Wednesday, causing panic among residents in several areas.

According to the Seismological Centre, the quake originated in the Hindukush region of Afghanistan at a depth of 114 kilometres. Tremors were felt in major cities like Peshawar, Rawalpindi, and Swabi, as well as surrounding areas. Shocks were also reported in Bajaur, Diamer, and nearby localities.

There were no immediate reports of casualties or property damage.

This quake comes just days after a similar earthquake hit KP and Punjab on February 20. That quake also measured 5.6 and had its epicentre in the Hindu Kush region at a depth of 73 kilometres. Tremors were felt in several cities, including Peshawar and Islamabad.

Pakistan is highly vulnerable to earthquakes because it lies along the boundary of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it one of the most seismically active regions in the world.

The country has experienced several deadly earthquakes in recent decades. In 2005, a quake in Azad Kashmir killed over 73,000 people and left millions homeless. In 2021, a quake in Harnai, Balochistan killed at least 20 people and disrupted rescue efforts due to landslides.

Experts warn that Pakistan’s rugged terrain in earthquake-prone areas makes relief work difficult and emphasizes the importance of preparedness. The recent tremors in KP and Punjab are a reminder of the ongoing seismic risks in the region.