5.3 magnitude earthquake jolts many parts of K-P

Epicenter was located in Hindukush region of Afghanistan, approximately 102km from Bajaur

A 5.3 magnitude earthquake jolted various cities in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) on Wednesday, the Associated Press of Pakistan reported. According to Seismological Centre, severe shocks were reported in Upper Dir, Chitral, Swat, and surrounding areas, forcing citizens to rush out of their houses.

The Seismological Centre confirmed the magnitude of the earthquake, stating that its epicenter was located in the Hindukush region of Afghanistan, approximately 102 kilometres from Bajaur.
So far, no immediate loss of life or property has been reported.

It is pertinent to mention that Pakistan lies on several active fault lines and is located in highly seismically active region, making it vulnerable to earthquakes. Earlier this month, an earthquake measured 5.4 on the Richter scale, with a depth of 122 kilometres, hit several regions of Pakistan.

In June this year, Karachi recorded a total of 19 mild tremors which is rare in the city's history. The Early Tsunami Warning Cell Karachi released official data, confirming that the strongest earthquake measured 3.6 magnitude, while the weakest was recorded at 2.1 magnitude.

Out of the total 19 tremors, 11 were recorded in Malir district, while the remaining were felt in the southwestern part of Korangi and the northeastern areas of DHA.

Experts attributed the repeated seismic activity to shifts in underground tectonic layers. These tremors were caused by the release of energy generated by low-level seismic movement beneath the earth’s surface.