ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) – A moderate earthquake was felt across several regions of Pakistan on Monday, prompting residents in various cities to rush out of homes, offices and commercial buildings as tremors spread through parts of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the federal capital.
According to the Seismic Monitoring Centre, the earthquake measured 5.4 on the Richter scale and originated in Afghanistan’s Hindu Kush mountain range. Officials said the quake occurred at a depth of 215 kilometres, which contributed to the widespread area over which the tremors were felt.
Residents reported feeling shaking in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, while tremors were also experienced in several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, Swat, Bajaur, Buner, Hangu, Shangla, Kohat, Mohmand and Shabqadar.
In Punjab, people in various cities, including Multan, also reported experiencing the earthquake. Witnesses said many residents quickly moved to open spaces as a precaution, while others recited religious verses during the brief period of shaking.
Emergency management authorities monitored the situation following the quake and began collecting information from affected areas. Initial reports indicated that no casualties, injuries or significant property damage had occurred.
Pakistan frequently experiences earthquakes because it lies near the boundary of several major tectonic plates. Seismic activity originating in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan is often felt across northern and central parts of Pakistan due to the area’s geological characteristics.
Experts note that deep-focus earthquakes, such as the latest tremor, are generally felt over a wider region but may cause less surface damage compared to shallower quakes of similar magnitude.
The earthquake briefly caused concern among residents, particularly in high-rise buildings and densely populated urban areas, where people evacuated structures until the tremors subsided. Normal activities resumed shortly afterward as authorities confirmed there were no immediate reports of serious incidents.
Disaster management officials have advised citizens to remain aware of earthquake safety procedures and follow guidance issued by local authorities in the event of future seismic activity.
While the latest quake did not result in any reported losses, it served as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters and the importance of preparedness measures for communities living in earthquake-prone areas.
Authorities said they will continue monitoring seismic activity and assessing any delayed reports from affected districts.
