A strong earthquake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale struck northern Pakistan on Saturday, sending tremors across Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and several other cities, prompting residents to evacuate homes and offices as a precaution. According to preliminary reports, the earthquake originated in Afghanistan's Hindu Kush region at a depth of approximately 178 to 191 kilometres.
Tremors Felt Across Multiple Regions
The tremors were felt across Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and adjoining areas. Residents in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Peshawar, Muzaffarabad, Swat, Malakand, Dir, Abbottabad, Faisalabad, Attock, Chakwal, Mianwali, Multan, Sheikhupura, Sargodha, Chiniot, Taxila, Hasan Abdal, and several other districts reported moderate to strong shaking. Many people rushed into open spaces as buildings trembled. In Muzaffarabad and other affected areas, citizens gathered outside their homes and buildings immediately after the earthquake, while authorities initiated precautionary measures and began assessing the situation.
PDMA Confirms Magnitude and Epicenter
The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) confirmed the earthquake's magnitude at 5.9 and said the epicentre was located in Afghanistan's Hindu Kush region. The authority directed district administrations to inspect buildings and monitor any potential damage. PDMA Director General said the provincial control room and district emergency operation centres had been placed on high alert to coordinate emergency response and collect information from across the province.
No Immediate Reports of Casualties
Officials said there were no immediate reports of casualties or significant property damage. Authorities have advised the public to report any loss of life or property through the PDMA helpline (1129) to ensure a timely emergency response.
