A powerful earthquake in Pakistan jolted Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) late Thursday evening, forcing residents to rush out of their homes in fear. The 5.9 magnitude tremor, with its epicenter in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan, renewed concerns about seismic activity in the region, which has already been hit by multiple quakes in recent days.
Strong Tremors Across Cities
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the quake struck at 9:56 pm PST. It originated 111 kilometers deep inside the Hindu Kush mountains, with coordinates at 35.12°N and 70.71°E.
Residents reported feeling the tremors in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and several cities in Punjab and KP. Peshawar, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Malakand, Hangu, Swat, and Attock also experienced the shockwaves.
The sudden jolt triggered panic as people ran out into open spaces, fearing aftershocks. For many, the memory of past devastating quakes in the region resurfaced, making the experience even more terrifying.
No Immediate Casualties Reported
Authorities confirmed that no immediate casualties or structural damage were reported in Pakistan. Rescue agencies and district administrations remained on alert, monitoring vulnerable areas for possible aftershocks.
The PMD emphasized that the depth of the quake, more than 100 kilometers underground, reduced the risk of major destruction. However, the widespread intensity highlighted the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity.
Second Quake in Four Days
This tremor marked the second strong earthquake in less than a week. On Monday, a 6.0 magnitude quake struck southeastern Afghanistan, at a depth of just 15 kilometers. That shallow earthquake caused severe damage across the border while sparing Pakistan from major destruction.
The contrast between the two quakes underscores how depth plays a crucial role in determining the level of devastation. While Pakistan escaped largely unscathed, Afghanistan suffered immense tragedy.
Afghanistan Bears Heavy Loss
The recent Afghan earthquake has become one of the deadliest in decades for the country. According to Taliban authorities, the death toll climbed to more than 2,200 by Thursday, with most victims in Kunar province.
Reports indicated that 3,640 people were injured, and thousands of homes collapsed. Entire villages in mountainous areas were reduced to rubble, forcing survivors to live in makeshift shelters. Relief efforts remain challenging due to difficult terrain and limited resources.
The tragedy highlights the regional risk posed by seismic activity along the Hindu Kush fault line. Afghanistan, already grappling with humanitarian crises, faces further strain as it struggles to assist survivors.
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Pakistan on High Alert
In Pakistan, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) directed provincial departments to remain vigilant. Local authorities were advised to conduct rapid assessments of infrastructure, especially in quake-prone districts.
Emergency services in KP and Punjab stayed on standby, while hospitals reviewed their preparedness in case of an influx of injured patients.
Experts warned that aftershocks were possible and urged citizens to remain cautious. Residents were reminded of safety measures, including assembling in open areas, avoiding damaged buildings, and staying away from electrical wires during tremors.
Historical Seismic Vulnerability
Pakistan lies in a seismically active zone, particularly along the Hindu Kush and Himalayan fault lines. The 2005 Kashmir earthquake, which killed more than 80,000 people, remains a painful reminder of the country’s vulnerability.
Experts frequently call for stricter enforcement of building codes to reduce risks in earthquake-prone regions. Unplanned urbanization, weak infrastructure, and poor disaster preparedness continue to pose serious challenges.
Citizens Recall Past Disasters
In Islamabad and Peshawar, residents recounted how Thursday’s quake triggered fear similar to past tragedies. Families rushed outside, many barefoot and carrying children, as sirens rang across some neighborhoods.
“We felt our whole apartment shake violently. For a moment, I thought the building would collapse,” said a resident of Rawalpindi. Others in Swat described furniture rattling and windows shaking as the tremors lasted for several seconds.
Social media quickly filled with reports, videos, and prayers for safety, with many urging the government to step up disaster readiness.
Calls for Preparedness
Seismologists stress that while earthquakes cannot be predicted, preparedness can significantly reduce casualties. Authorities have been urged to invest in stronger building structures, early warning systems, and public awareness campaigns.
Analysts also pointed to the need for cross-border cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan on disaster response. With both countries facing similar threats from the Hindu Kush fault line, coordinated efforts could help save lives in future emergencies.
Regional Tension and Humanitarian Challenge
While Pakistan escaped serious harm, the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan continues to draw international concern. Aid agencies fear that the scale of destruction in Kunar province may worsen due to limited resources and harsh terrain.
At the same time, the repeated tremors in the region are testing public patience. Many worry about whether more powerful quakes could strike in the near future.
The Road Ahead
Thursday’s earthquake once again underscored Pakistan’s seismic vulnerability. While the nation avoided loss of life this time, the warning signs are clear. Strengthening disaster preparedness, enforcing building codes, and raising public awareness remain urgent priorities.
For now, relief agencies stay on alert, citizens remain cautious, and the memory of Afghanistan’s tragedy serves as a grim reminder of what could happen if a similar shallow quake strikes inside Pakistan.
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