Strong Tremor Hits Leh–Ladakh Region
A strong earthquake measuring 5.7 on the Richter scale struck the Leh–Ladakh region on Monday, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS). The tremor occurred at 11:51 am and startled residents across parts of northwestern Kashmir. The NCS confirmed that the epicentre lay in Leh–Ladakh at a depth of 171 kilometres. Although the quake originated deep underground, people reported noticeable shaking in nearby areas. As a result, authorities immediately began monitoring the situation.
No Casualties Reported, Situation Under Watch
So far, officials have reported no loss of life or damage to property. However, disaster management teams remain on alert due to the possibility of aftershocks. The local administration has advised residents to stay cautious and follow safety guidelines. Meanwhile, emergency response units continue to assess the impact in remote areas. Officials urged people to avoid panic and rely only on verified information. Therefore, government agencies have stepped up coordination to ensure quick action if needed.
Ladakh Lies in Seismically Active Himalayan Belt
Importantly, Ladakh forms part of the highly active Himalayan seismic zone. This region frequently experiences earthquakes due to the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. Experts note that while deeper earthquakes usually cause less surface damage, they still signal ongoing tectonic stress. Consequently, authorities stress the need for preparedness and awareness in earthquake-prone areas. The latest tremor again highlights the vulnerability of the Himalayan belt.
Recent Quakes Raise Regional Concerns
The Ladakh earthquake follows a series of tremors reported across the region in recent days. Just a day earlier, Afghanistan experienced a 4.1 magnitude quake. Additionally, NCS data shows multiple earthquakes struck Afghanistan between January 14 and 15, with magnitudes ranging from 3.8 to 4.2. Although these quakes caused limited damage, experts warn that frequent seismic activity indicates heightened regional instability. Therefore, disaster management agencies continue to review preparedness measures. Authorities also urged citizens to remain alert and prepared for any future tremors.
