Key Points
- Epicentre in Afghanistan’s Hindu Kush
- Residents flee buildings in panic
- No immediate reports of damage or casualties
ISLAMABAD: A powerful earthquake struck parts of Pakistan on Friday, triggering panic across Islamabad and several districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit Baltistan.
The National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC) of the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) said the quake struck at a depth of 120 kilometres, with its epicentre located in the Hindu Kush region.
The tremors were felt in Abbottabad, Swat, and Chitral, causing panic among residents who rushed out of homes and buildings.
The earthquake struck at a depth that helped spread the tremors across a wide area. However, no immediate reports of damage or casualties were received at the time of reporting. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and assessing potential impacts, particularly in remote regions.
The tremors, which lasted several seconds, were strong enough to shake windows and furniture. In urban centers such as Islamabad and Peshawar, residents evacuated buildings as a precaution. Emergency services remain on alert and are prepared to respond if necessary.
Pakistan lies in a seismically active zone and has experienced devastating earthquakes in the past. Officials have urged residents to stay alert, avoid enclosed spaces during aftershocks, and follow emergency guidelines for safety.
