5.6-Magnitude Earthquake Jolts Parts of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
- Sara Habib
- April 17, 2025
- 10:43 am
- 42
- Current Affairs
A 5.6-magnitude earthquake hit parts of northern Pakistan early Thursday. The tremors were felt in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The epicenter was in Afghanistan’s Hindu Kush region, 69 kilometers deep.
Though not very powerful, the quake shook many areas. People rushed outside in fear. They gathered in open spaces and prayed for safety.
Cities and Areas That Felt the Quake
Tremors were reported in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujrat, Taxila, and Wah Cantt. Northern regions such as Chitral, Upper Dir, Shangla, Buner, Bajaur, and Ghizer also felt the earthquake.
Even though no damage was reported, the shaking caused panic. Families left their homes. Some areas saw traffic on roads as people sought safe spots.
Why This Region is at Risk
Pakistan lies on active fault lines. This makes it prone to earthquakes. The Hindu Kush region, in particular, sees frequent seismic activity.
Therefore, even small earthquakes should not be ignored. Authorities monitor such events closely. Staying alert can help avoid future losses.
Public Reaction and Emergency Response
Local authorities quickly assessed the situation. No serious damage or injuries were reported. However, fear among residents was noticeable.
People shared updates on social media. Emergency teams stayed on standby. Hospitals and services remained alert just in case.
Importance of Earthquake Preparedness
Earthquakes often come without warning. But being prepared makes a big difference. Here are a few tips:
Keep an emergency bag ready
Know safe spots at home or work
Stay away from windows during a quake
Practice regular drills with your family
What’s Next?
Though this quake caused no major damage, more tremors are possible. Experts advise staying calm and updated. Local disaster management teams continue to monitor the region.
