In the early hours of April 7, 2024, residents of Kishtwar, Jammu, and Kashmir, were jolted awake by a mild earthquake measuring 3.5 on the Richter scale. The seismic event occurred precisely at 02:47:02 IST, with its epicenter located at a latitude of 33.34 and longitude 76.66, at a depth of 10 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface.
While a magnitude 3.5 earthquake is relatively minor and unlikely to cause significant damage, it serves as a reminder of the seismic activity prevalent in the region. Jammu and Kashmir, nestled in the Himalayan foothills, is prone to earthquakes due to its proximity to the Indian Plate’s collision with the Eurasian Plate.
The seismic monitoring agencies continue to closely monitor the situation, providing updates and ensuring the safety of the affected population. Earthquakes, even of moderate magnitude, underscore the importance of disaster preparedness and resilient infrastructure in vulnerable regions like Kishtwar, Jammu, and Kashmir.