Tremor in Delhi NCR With 4.4 Magnitude

Panic gripped the National Capital Region (NCR) on 10 July, Thursday morning, as strong earthquake tremors were felt across Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad, and surrounding areas. The tremors, which lasted several seconds, forced residents and office workers to evacuate buildings and gather in open spaces.

According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake measured 4.4 on the Richter scale and struck at 9:04 AM IST. The epicentre was located in Jhajjar, Haryana, approximately 60 kilometers west of Delhi, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers beneath the surface. The intensity of the tremors was enough to shake furniture, rattle windows, and cause fans and hanging objects to sway.

Widespread Panic and Rapid Evacuation

Eyewitnesses described scenes of alarm in residential societies, offices, schools, and metro stations. People rushed out of their homes barefoot, many still in sleepwear. Office buildings in central Delhi and cyber hubs in Gurugram were evacuated as a precautionary measure. In some areas, minor stampedes were reported as people tried to flee quickly.

Social media was flooded with videos showing buildings swaying slightly and people assembling in parks, parking lots, and roadsides. Several users reported feeling light-headed or dizzy due to the sudden tremors.

Immediate Impact

• Mild to moderate shaking lasted for 15–20 seconds.

• No immediate reports of major damage or casualties.

• Metro services were temporarily halted as a precaution.

• People evacuated buildings, with videos showing crowds gathered in open spaces.

No Casualties or Major Damage Reported

Fortunately, no injuries or structural damage have been reported so far. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local authorities confirmed that emergency protocols were in place and there was no need for panic. Delhi Fire Services and police were on high alert, and a few precautionary inspections were carried out at sensitive installations, including hospitals, flyovers, and metro stations.

Expert Insight and Warning

Delhi-NCR lies in Seismic Zone IV, which is classified as a high-damage risk zone in India. Experts from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and seismologists at NCS emphasized that while the earthquake was not severe, its epicentre’s proximity to Delhi increased its perceived intensity.

“There is always the possibility of aftershocks after an event like this,” warned an NCS official. Citizens have been advised to remain alert and follow earthquake safety protocols, especially if they are indoors, in the event of future tremors.

Earthquake Safety Tips

1. Do not panic. Stay calm and alert.

2. Avoid elevators. Use stairs during evacuations.

3. Drop, cover, and hold on if indoors.

4. Move to open spaces away from buildings, poles, and trees.

5. Do not rush. Move out in an orderly manner.

To stay updated on future earthquake tremors

1. Enable Android Earthquake Alerts in phone settings under Location > Earthquake alerts

2. Download apps like Bhookamp, MyShake, or Earthquake Network

3. Install the SACHET app (NDMA’s disaster alert app)

4. Follow NCS on X (@NCS_Earthquake) for real-time updates

5. Use Google Search: “Earthquake near me” for instant information

Conclusion

While today’s earthquake serves as a reminder of Delhi’s vulnerability to seismic activity, preparedness and awareness are key to minimizing risks. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, and residents are urged to follow verified government channels for updates.

If you are in Delhi-NCR, stay cautious and ready, but there is no reason to panic. Keep an emergency kit handy, know your building's evacuation plan, and educate your family about earthquake safety.