ISLAMABAD: A strong earthquake struck northern Pakistan on Monday, sending tremors across Islamabad and Gilgit-Baltistan, and triggering landslides in parts of Hunza, officials said.
According to Pakistan’s seismic monitoring centre, the earthquake measured 5.9 on the Richter scale, with its epicentre located near Gilgit at a depth of 10 kilometres. So far, there have been no reports of any deaths or injuries.
Following the quake, landslides were reported in mountainous areas around Gilgit and Hunza, blocking several link roads and disrupting connectivity. Authorities said multiple residential buildings sustained damage in affected areas, though no loss of life has been reported.
Videos shared on social media showed clouds of dust rising from mountain slopes in Hunza as rockfalls and landslides occurred. Local sources said the worst-hit areas included the Chapursan Valley and upper Hunza, where road access has been partially cut off.
Emergency services and local administrations are assessing damage and working to clear debris from affected routes, while residents have been urged to remain cautious amid the risk of aftershocks.
Pakistan has experienced several deadly earthquakes in the past, including the 2005 Kashmir earthquake, which killed more than 70,000 people, and the 2013 Awaran earthquake in Balochistan.
As a result, authorities closely monitor seismic activity, particularly in mountainous areas where earthquakes often trigger landslides, road closures and infrastructure damage even when casualties are avoided.
