Srinagar, Feb 2:
A moderate-intensity earthquake rattled the Kashmir Valley in the early hours of Monday, triggering widespread panic across several districts. The tremor, which occurred at approximately 5:35 AM, sent residents rushing out of their homes into the streets during the pre-dawn cold.
Epicenter in Budgam
According to preliminary data from the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) and independent monitor Kashmir Weather, the quake’s epicenter was located in the Budgam district, approximately 21 km from Srinagar.
The seismic event originated at a shallow depth of 10 km, which amplified the perception of shaking across the valley floor.
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Magnitude: 4.8 on the Richter Scale
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Time: 05:35 AM IST
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Depth: 10 km
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Energy Released: Equivalent to approximately 239 tons of TNT
No Immediate Damage Reported
Despite the strong, brief shaking that lasted for several seconds, official assessments indicate that the region has escaped significant harm.
The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) confirmed that as of Monday morning, there have been no reports of casualties or major structural damage to public or private property.
“The concerned departments are actively monitoring the situation. Preliminary reports from all districts of Jammu and Kashmir show no loss of life or property,” a senior SDMA official stated.
Areas Affected
The tremors were felt most strongly in the districts surrounding the epicenter, including: Budgam (Central Kashmir), Srinagar, Pulwama, Shopian and Baramulla (Pattan area).
Residents in Srinagar’s downtown and uptown areas reported windows and household goods rattling violently, prompting frantic phone calls to relatives to check on their safety.
Advisory Issued
Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and vigilant against aftershocks. The administration has specifically cautioned citizens against spreading unverified rumors on social media platforms that could lead to further panic.
The Himalayan region remains one of the most seismically active zones in the world, and experts remind the public to follow standard earthquake safety protocols: Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
