19 tremors in three days shake city

Unprecedented seismic activity leaves citizens alarmed; Malir most affected

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KARACHI:

The port city has experienced an unusual spike in seismic activity, with 19 mild earthquakes recorded between June 1 and June 3, according to the National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) of Pakistan Meteorological Department.

The strongest tremor occurred on Sunday evening, measuring 3.6 on the Richter scale. Data released by the NTWC indicates that the quake struck at 5:33pm on Sunday and was the most intense of the recent seismic events. The weakest tremor, recorded in DHA City, measured 2.1 in magnitude.

Officials at the Tsunami Center described the situation as unprecedented, stating that Karachi has never before experienced such a high number of localized tremors within such a short span.

"There is no historical precedent for this level of seismic activity in the city," an NTWC official noted, calling the trend "highly unusual."

Of the 19 recorded tremors, 11 were centered in District Malir, while others were felt in the southwestern parts of Korangi and the northeastern parts of DHA.

Though minor, the frequency has stirred fear among people.

Authorities have yet to determine the cause behind the sudden cluster of tremors, but monitoring efforts have been intensified. Seismologists are urging citizens to remain calm while staying alert, as further assessment continues.

CM cites concern over pre-shocks

While calling low-scale tremors "a good thing" due to the release of the earth's energy, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah also warned of the possibility of a major earthquake, citing concerns over pre-shocks that often precede larger seismic events.

"I studied earthquake engineering long ago… these low-scale tremors are actually a good thing - the earth is releasing its energy," he added.

Speaking to reporters after inaugurating a rehabilitation centre for children with physical and neurodevelopmental conditions in Karachi, Shah criticised the decision to evacuate inmates from prison due to the tremors.