On 22 July 2025, a 3.2 magnitude earthquake struck Faridabad, with tremors felt across Delhi. According to the National Centre for Seismology, its epicenter was 5 km below the surface.
Earlier, on July 11, a 3.7 magnitude quake struck Jhajjar, Haryana, just a day after a stronger 4.4 magnitude quake hit the same region. All these incidents have caused no physical damage so far, but their frequency is a cause for concern.
Why and Which Areas Are at High Risk?
The proximity of Delhi to the Himalayan seismic belt increases its vulnerability. Additionally, local fault lines beneath Delhi pose a serious threat of localized, intense shaking.
Certain areas face greater danger due to poor construction practices and soil conditions:
- Old Delhi (Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazar, Jama Masjid area)
- Congested areas with old, unreinforced masonry buildings that are poorly resistant to seismic activity.
- East Delhi (Yamuna Floodplains – Mayur Vihar, Shahdara, Seelampur)
- Characterized by alluvial soil that may liquefy during earthquakes, collapsing structures easily.
- Unauthorized colonies and slums
- Lack of adherence to building codes increases risk in such settlements.
What Causes Earthquakes?
Earthquakes occur when stress builds up between tectonic plates and is suddenly released, causing the Earth’s crust to shake. The Earth’s surface is broken into large plates that move slowly but continuously. Their collision, slipping, or pulling apart leads to seismic events.
What to Do During and After an Earthquake:
What to Do During an Earthquake:
DO’s:
- DROP – Immediately get down on your hands and knees to prevent being knocked over.
- COVER – Take cover under a sturdy table or desk. If that’s not available, protect your head and neck with your arms and move near an interior wall.
- HOLD ON – Hold on to the shelter until the shaking completely stops.
What NOT to Do During an Earthquake:
DON’Ts:
- Don’t run – Falling debris or power lines could injure you.
- Don’t use elevators – Power may fail and trap you inside.
- Don’t stand in doorways – Contrary to myth, doorways offer little protection and are no safer than other parts of the building.
What to Do After the Earthquake:
- Check yourself and others for injuries and give first aid if needed.
- Be alert for gas leaks, leave the area immediately if you smell gas.
- Stay away from damaged buildings, downed power lines, or broken glass.
- If your building is unsafe, evacuate to an open area.
- Stay updated via official sources like IMD, NDMA, or local authorities.
Who Can Shield Us in Tragedies?
When nature strikes, we realize how limited human power, science, and wealth truly are. No government or technology can stand against the wrath of nature. Only the Supreme God can shield us.
According to the spiritual knowledge shared by Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj, those who follow the correct method of worship and take true initiation from a Tatvdarshi Saint can be protected from natural calamities. True devotion has the power to extend life, protect during disasters, and even grant resurrection. This divine protection is beyond human capability.
Frequently Asked Questions About Earthquakes and Safety Measures
Q1. What is the most authentic resource for reliable information during a disaster?
A. To avoid rumours one can follow DDMA (Delhi Disaster Management Authority), NDMA (National Disaster Management Authority), IMD (India Meteorological Department), and credible news outlets.
Q2. Can scientists predict the exact time of earthquakes?
A. No, It is not possible to predict earthquakes and tremors highlight the ongoing risk only.
Q3. Signs which underline the upcoming earthquake?
A. Signals that can help knowing the earthquake is coming are foreshocks, increasing water level in the wells and arrival of P- and S-waves.
Q4. Where do most earthquakes happen ?
A. Most earthquakes happen in the “Ring of Fire” which is the area surrounding the Pacific Ocean. This only area accounts for 81% of total earthquakes in the world.
Q5 What is the highest magnitude earthquake ever recorded?
A. 9.5 magnitude earthquake (Valdivia Earthquake, Chile, 1960) remains the strongest earthquake ever recorded on Earth.
