On the morning of February 17, 2025, a powerful earthquake rattled Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region (NCR), sending residents into a panic. The earthquake, with a magnitude of 4.0, struck at 5:36 AM IST, causing tremors to be felt across Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, and other nearby areas.
The epicenter of the earthquake was reported to be near Dhaula Kuan, a well-known area in New Delhi, at a depth of 5 kilometers. The shaking lasted for several seconds, but those who felt it described it as powerful enough to cause alarm. In many high-rise buildings, residents immediately began evacuating, stepping outside for safety.
Residents Evacuate as Buildings Shake
Tremors Felt in Multiple Areas
Residents in Delhi woke up to the jarring vibrations, with some describing the tremors as severe enough to wake them from sleep. Tremors were felt across various parts of the city, including central locations like Connaught Place, Rajouri Garden, and South Extension, as well as in the NCR areas of Noida and Ghaziabad. Social media platforms, including Twitter, were flooded with posts from people sharing their experiences of the earthquake.
In the hours following the earthquake, social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook were filled with posts from people sharing their personal experiences and images of the event. Many citizens voiced their shock at the quake’s suddenness, with some describing it as one of the most intense tremors they had ever felt. The experience left residents worried about what might follow, especially given the uncertainty that typically accompanies natural disasters.
The tremors were also felt in neighboring states, such as Haryana and parts of Uttar Pradesh. People took to social media to share videos and comments, with many expressing their shock at the suddenness and intensity of the quake. Several users posted pictures of items falling off shelves and light fixtures swaying.
Reports suggest that, despite the frightening experience, there have been no confirmed reports of major injuries or significant property damage. Nonetheless, the emotional impact was considerable, with many residents on edge, as the unexpected earthquake left them with lingering uncertainty about potential aftershocks.
Delhi Shaken by One of the Strongest Earthquakes in Years
The last major earthquake to strike Delhi occurred on March 28, 1999, with a magnitude of 6.8 on the Richter scale, originating from the Uttarkashi region of Uttarakhand. While the epicenter was far from Delhi, the tremors were still felt across the city, causing panic among residents. Fortunately, the damage in Delhi was relatively minimal.
However, Delhi has experienced several smaller but notable earthquakes in recent years. For instance, on April 12, 2020, the city experienced a 3.5 magnitude earthquake. This was followed by another moderate quake on May 10, 2020, with a magnitude of 3.4, which was felt in areas of Northeast Delhi. Just a few weeks later, on May 29, 2020, a 4.4 magnitude earthquake struck Rohtak, a city located in Haryana, about 70 kilometers from Delhi. Though these quakes were less intense than the 1999 earthquake, they still caused alarm, as residents reported shaking buildings and nervousness about potential aftershocks.
Government Response and Safety Measures
In response to the earthquake, local authorities and emergency services immediately sprang into action. Fire and rescue teams were put on high alert, ready to respond to any potential fires or emergencies that could arise in the aftermath. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal took to social media to assure residents that all necessary precautions were being taken and that there was no immediate report of casualties.
Local government officials, including Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, took to social media to assure the public that necessary safety measures were being taken to address the situation. Kejriwal tweeted, “I pray for safety of everyone.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also addressed the nation through social media, urging citizens to remain calm and follow safety protocols. “Tremors were felt in Delhi and nearby areas. Urging everyone to stay calm and follow safety precautions, staying alert for possible aftershocks. Authorities are keeping a close watch on the situation.”
The combined efforts of the NDRF, local authorities, and emergency services have been instrumental in managing the immediate aftermath of the earthquake, ensuring public safety, and providing timely information to residents. Ongoing assessments and preparedness measures are being implemented to address any potential aftershocks and to strengthen the region’s resilience against future seismic events.