Delhi-NCR has experienced 446 earthquakes since 1993. Learn about the recent 4.0 magnitude quake, past seismic activity, and the region’s earthquake risks.
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Delhi-NCR’s Seismic History: 446 Earthquakes Since 1993
New Delhi: The Delhi-NCR region has recorded 446 earthquakes between 1993 and 2025, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). The recent 4.0 magnitude earthquake, felt across the region, was more intense due to its shallow depth of just 5 km.
How Frequent Are Earthquakes in Delhi-NCR?
- Between 1993 and 2025, seismic activity ranged from minor (1.1 magnitude) to medium-intensity (4.6 magnitude).
- The strongest recorded earthquake in recent history was 4.6 magnitude on November 25, 2007.
- In 2020 alone, the region experienced over 30 quakes between April and August.
- In 2022-23, at least 15 earthquakes were recorded, the strongest being 3.8 magnitude.
Recent Earthquake: Why Did It Feel More Intense?
The most recent 4.0 magnitude earthquake, which struck southwest Delhi’s Dhaula Kuan area, was notable for its intensity. According to NCS, the reason it felt stronger was:
✅ Shallow depth – The earthquake originated just 5 km below the surface, leading to stronger ground shaking.
✅ Hydro-fracturing – The quake was caused by the breaking of base rock due to stress accumulation, rather than traditional plate movement.
✅ Close proximity to weak zones – The epicenter was located near several structural lineaments (weak zones in the Earth’s crust).
Understanding Delhi-NCR’s Earthquake Risk
Major Fault Lines & Epicenter Analysis
Delhi-NCR is not located directly on a major tectonic plate boundary, but several fault lines run through the region:
- Mathura Fault
- Sohna Fault
- Mahendragarh Fault
However, the recent quake did not originate from these faults but instead resulted from hydro-fracturing near a lake bed.
Historic Earthquakes in Delhi-NCR 📜
The region has witnessed some strong earthquakes over the centuries, including:
- 1720 Delhi Earthquake (Magnitude 6.5)
- 1903 Mathura Earthquake (Magnitude 6.8, strongest on record)
- 1956 Bulandshahr Earthquake (Magnitude 6.7)
These historical quakes highlight that while Delhi does not sit on a major seismic zone, it remains vulnerable to strong earthquakes.
Will Delhi Face a Bigger Earthquake in the Future? 🔮
Experts believe that while small to medium earthquakes help release accumulated energy, preventing larger quakes, Delhi-NCR still remains at risk due to:
🔸 Urban expansion and high-rise construction – Many buildings may not be earthquake-resistant.
🔸 Presence of soft alluvial soil – This amplifies shaking during earthquakes.
🔸 High population density – A major quake could impact millions of residents.
Precautionary Measures: How to Stay Safe During an Earthquake 🚨
Given the frequency of earthquakes in Delhi-NCR, residents must stay prepared. Here are some key safety measures:
Before an Earthquake
✔️ Ensure your home is earthquake-resistant.
✔️ Identify safe spots in your home (under sturdy furniture, away from windows).
✔️ Keep an emergency kit ready (water, food, flashlight, first aid).
During an Earthquake
✔️ Drop, Cover, and Hold On – Take cover under a sturdy table.
✔️ Stay away from windows, glass, and heavy furniture.
✔️ If outdoors, move to an open space away from buildings and power lines.
After an Earthquake
✔️ Check for injuries and provide first aid if necessary.
✔️ Avoid using elevators.
✔️ Be prepared for aftershocks.
Final Thoughts: Should Delhi Be Worried?
While Delhi-NCR has a long history of seismic activity, most earthquakes have been of low to moderate intensity. However, the presence of historical high-magnitude quakes means that residents and authorities must stay vigilant.
📢 Earthquake preparedness and strict enforcement of building codes are crucial to minimizing damage and ensuring safety.
