The Biz Reporter
Srinagar, Feb 19: A moderate intensity earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter Scale struck parts of Kashmir late on Monday evening.
According to meteorological officials, the epicenter of the earthquake was located near Ladakh region at approximately 9:35 PM.
While the tremors were felt across wider Kashmir region, including capital Srinagar, there have been no immediate reports of loss of life or extensive damage. However, panicked residents did rush out of buildings and homes when the quake struck. It lasted for 8-10 seconds as per eye witness reports.
Officials from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that the earthquake struck at a depth of 10 kilometers below the ground. The Himalayan region is known to have high seismic activity owing to friction between tectonic plates below the surface.
This is third earthquake to hit Kashmir in 10 days, albeit with lower intensities than Monday’s. The region last saw a major 7.5 magnitude earthquake in 2005 leading to widespread death and destruction on both sides of Line of Control.
