Moderate Earthquake Jolts Assam's Hailakandi District, Sending Tremors Across Barak Valley
A moderate earthquake, registering a magnitude of 4.8 on the Richter scale, struck the Hailakandi district in Assam on Tuesday afternoon. The seismic event sent tremors rippling across several parts of the Barak Valley region, triggering widespread panic among local residents. According to the National Centre for Seismology, the quake occurred precisely at 2:18 pm Indian Standard Time.
Epicentre and Depth Details of the Seismic Event
The epicentre of the earthquake was pinpointed in Hailakandi at coordinates latitude 24.823°N and longitude 92.634°E. Notably, the focal depth was recorded at a shallow 5 kilometres, which significantly amplified the intensity of the tremors felt on the surface. The agency has officially marked this event as reviewed on its portal, indicating thorough analysis and confirmation of the seismic data.
Residents Report Intense Shaking and Panic Responses
Residents across key areas including Silchar, Hailakandi, and Cachar reported experiencing a sudden and sharp jolt. Many described household items such as utensils rattling violently, with objects falling off shelves in numerous instances as the ground shook persistently for several seconds. A resident from Silchar's Link Road area shared, "We rushed out of our homes in sheer panic. Such intense tremors had not been felt in the valley for a considerable period. Had the shaking persisted for a few more minutes, it could have led to massive destruction."
The tremor prompted people to evacuate hastily from both homes and offices, spreading brief anxiety throughout neighbourhoods. Although the shaking lasted only a few seconds, it left many individuals feeling rattled and unsettled by the unexpected event.
Seismic Activity and Monitoring in the Region
Data available on the National Centre for Seismology portal revealed that the Hailakandi earthquake ranked among the strongest reviewed seismic events recorded in the region at that time. Fortunately, no immediate reports of major structural damage or casualties were available when this report was filed. Authorities have assured that the situation is being closely monitored to assess any potential aftershocks or further risks.
It is important to note that the Barak Valley region falls within a seismically active zone, where tremors of varying intensity are not uncommon due to geological factors. This event underscores the ongoing vulnerability of the area to seismic disturbances, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and preparedness among residents and local governance.
