Mild Earthquake Hits Dharamshala, Heightening Seismic Concerns

Seismic Activity in Dharamshala

News Media
Dharamshala

A minor earthquake rattled parts of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh late on Monday night, raising alarms about the area's growing susceptibility to seismic events. The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) reported that the quake registered a magnitude of 3.6 on the Richter scale and occurred 56 kilometers north of Dharamshala at 9:28 PM.

The earthquake struck at a depth of 10 kilometers, which is relatively shallow and can amplify the tremor's effects felt on the surface. Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of injuries or significant property damage.

This tremor comes at a time when leading Indian seismologists are increasingly warning about the risk of major earthquakes in the Himalayan region. Dr. N Purnachandra Rao, Chief Scientist and Seismologist at the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI), has recently highlighted that the northward movement of the Indian tectonic plate at a rate of 5 cm per year is causing stress to build up along the Himalayan fault lines, particularly affecting areas like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

Dr. Rao cautioned, “The area between Himachal and western Nepal, including Uttarakhand, is recognized as a seismic gap and is especially at risk. Larger magnitude earthquakes could occur here at any moment.”

Uttarakhand has established a network of 18 seismograph stations to closely monitor the region's geophysical activity. Experts continue to stress the need for preparedness, earthquake-resistant infrastructure, and public awareness to reduce the risks associated with potential disasters.

Local officials in Dharamshala have urged residents to stay vigilant and report any signs of structural damage. As of this report, no aftershocks have been detected.