Himachal Pradesh earthquake: Magnitude 5.0 tremor near Dharamshala triggers panic, no damage reported
PTC Web Desk: A series of earthquakes, including a significant magnitude 5.0 tremor, rattled parts of Himachal Pradesh's Kangra and Chamba districts, triggering panic among residents. However, no casualties or major property damage have been reported so far.
According to officials, the strongest earthquake struck at 10:04 pm on June 5. The epicentre was located in the Dhauladhar mountain range between Dhar Gharoi and RF Kugti along the Kangra-Chamba border, approximately 40 km from Dharamshala.
The earthquake occurred at a depth of 22.5 km and was felt across several areas of Kangra, Chamba and adjoining districts. Residents reported strong shaking, prompting many to step out of their homes as a precautionary measure.
The seismic activity began earlier in the day when a mild earthquake measuring 2.3 on the Richter scale was recorded near Minkiani Pass in the Dhauladhar range at 8:52 am. The epicentre was located around 16 km from Dharamshala. Due to its low intensity, the tremor was barely felt by residents.
Following the magnitude 5.0 earthquake, two additional tremors were recorded later in the night. A 2.8-magnitude earthquake struck at 11:03 pm approximately 18 km from Dharamshala, while another tremor measuring 3.0 occurred at 11:52 pm near RF Heelang, about 23 km from the town.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, although no reports of injuries or significant structural damage have emerged.
Kangra district, home to Dharamshala, falls under Seismic Zone-V, the highest earthquake-risk category in India. The region is considered highly vulnerable to seismic activity due to its location in the Himalayan belt. While earthquakes of magnitude 3 to 4 are generally classified as minor and rarely cause substantial damage, they are often strong enough to be felt by residents.
Officials have advised people to remain alert and follow safety protocols in the event of aftershocks.
- With inputs from agencies
