Mon Feb 17 17:58:22 UTC 2025: ## 4.0 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Delhi NCR, Prompts Widespread Panic

**New Delhi, India –** A 4.0 magnitude earthquake struck Delhi and surrounding areas at approximately 5:36 AM on Monday, sending residents scrambling out of buildings and triggering widespread panic. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) reported the quake’s epicenter near Jheel Park in Dhaula Kuan, at a depth of only five kilometers. This shallow depth, according to experts, amplified the tremors and resulted in a loud sound accompanying the shaking.

The tremors were strongly felt across Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad, with many residents describing them as the strongest they had ever experienced. Videos circulated on social media showed swaying buildings and panicked citizens rushing into the streets. One witness described the shaking as feeling like “a train was running underground.” A tree was even uprooted in Jheel Park, near the epicenter.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the situation on X (formerly Twitter), urging calm and advising residents to follow safety precautions and remain vigilant for potential aftershocks. Authorities, including Delhi Police, issued emergency contact numbers to assist citizens. Political leaders from various parties also expressed concern and relief on social media.

While no immediate reports of significant damage or injuries emerged, the earthquake caused considerable alarm. The shallow depth and proximity of the epicenter to densely populated areas contributed to the intensity felt by residents. Experts stated that while Delhi is in a seismically active zone, the relatively low magnitude of the earthquake still caused strong tremors due to its location. Some seismologists have cautioned that this event could be a precursor to a larger earthquake. The NCS reported the earthquake was caused by normal faulting, often associated with underground water or weakened rock formations. Major fault lines, such as the Sohna fault, were not implicated.

A similar 4.0 magnitude earthquake struck Siwan, Bihar, later that morning, though no damage was reported.

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