Strong Earthquake Jolts Himalayan Region Early Morning

Afghanistan : A powerful earthquake struck the Hindu Kush mountainous region of Afghanistan early Tuesday morning, shaking parts of South and Central Asia, including Jammu & Kashmir in India, Tibet, and Bangladesh. The tremors, which occurred at 4:43 AM IST, sent a wave of panic among residents who were jolted awake by the sudden movement of the earth.

The National Center for Seismology (NCS) confirmed that the earthquake measured 5.9 on the Richter scale. The epicenter was located approximately 75 kilometers below the earth’s surface in Afghanistan. Due to its depth and strength, the quake was felt across a wide swath of neighboring regions.

This incident once again highlights the seismic instability of the region. The Hindu Kush area is part of a highly active seismic zone where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates collide. The collision between these massive plates causes frequent earthquakes, making it one of the world’s most sensitive fault lines.

Among the various geological fault lines in the region, one of the most active runs near the city of Herat, increasing the vulnerability of this region to tremors. This tectonic movement not only affects Afghanistan but also has a ripple effect on neighboring countries like India, China, Nepal, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

No immediate reports of damage or casualties were confirmed, but the widespread impact of the tremors underscores the need for better preparedness and monitoring in these vulnerable zones. Local authorities across the affected countries have issued advisories urging people to remain alert and follow safety protocols in the event of aftershocks.

Residents in Jammu & Kashmir reported shaking furniture and swaying ceiling fans, prompting many to evacuate their homes temporarily. Social media was flooded with early morning posts describing the frightful experience, especially in areas with a history of seismic activity.

Earthquake experts and seismologists have long warned that this region requires constant monitoring and infrastructure reinforcement. As the region continues to experience tectonic stress, the possibility of stronger quakes in the future remains high.

The incident serves as another wake-up call for disaster preparedness across the subcontinent and beyond. Governments and communities are being urged to invest in resilient infrastructure and rapid response systems to mitigate the potential risks posed by such natural calamities.