Strong Earthquake Hits Punjab, KP – 5.6 Magnitude

In the early hours of April 16, 2025, a 5.6 magnitude earthquake struck parts of Pakistan, causing tremors across Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). The quake's epicenter was located in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan, approximately 69 kilometers from Parun in Nuristan province, at a depth of 99 kilometers.​

• Date & Time: April 16, 2025, at 3:13 AM (Pakistan Standard Time)

• Magnitude: 5.6 on the Richter scale

• Epicenter: Hindu Kush region, Afghanistan

• Depth: 99 kilometers

• Affected Areas: Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Azad Kashmir.

Residents in cities such as Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, and Rawalpindi reported feeling the tremors. The earthquake caused panic among the populace, leading many to evacuate buildings and seek open spaces. As of now, there have been no reports of casualties or significant property damage.

This earthquake follows a 5.5 magnitude tremor that occurred on April 12, 2025, with an epicenter near Rawalpindi. The frequency of these events underscores the importance of earthquake preparedness in the region .

The National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC) continues to monitor the situation and has assured the public that emergency services are on alert. Citizens are encouraged to report any damages or injuries to local authorities promptly.

The Hindu Kush region is known for its seismic activity due to the complex tectonic interactions between the Indian and Eurasian plates. The depth and location of this earthquake are consistent with previous seismic events in the area .​

Authorities have urged citizens to:

• Stay Calm: Avoid panic and remain composed.

• Evacuate Safely: If indoors, move to open areas away from buildings.

• Check for Hazards: Inspect for gas leaks, electrical damage, and structural issues.

• Stay Informed: Follow updates from official channels for further information.​

To enhance safety during seismic events:

• Secure Heavy Items: Anchor furniture and appliances to walls.

• Emergency Kits: Maintain kits with essentials like water, food, and first-aid supplies.

• Family Plans: Develop and practice emergency evacuation plans.

• Stay Educated: Participate in community drills and educational programs on earthquake safety.​

While the recent earthquake caused no significant damage, it serves as a reminder of the seismic risks in the region. Continuous vigilance, public education, and infrastructure resilience are key to mitigating the impact of future seismic events.