February 17, 2025: On February 17, 2025, at approximately 6:35 AM IST, a mild earthquake with a magnitude of 3.2 struck New Delhi and its surrounding National Capital Region (NCR). The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) reported that the earthquake's epicenter was near Durgabai Deshmukh College of Special Education in Dhaula Kuan, at a shallow depth of 5 kilometers.
Despite the relatively low magnitude, the shallow depth caused noticeable tremors across various parts of Delhi-NCR, prompting residents of high-rise buildings in Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad to evacuate their premises as a precautionary measure. A loud sound accompanied the tremors, adding to the alarm among the populace.
Historically, the Dhaula Kuan region, which features a nearby lake, has experienced minor seismic activities approximately every two to three years. Notably, a 3.3 magnitude earthquake was recorded in this area in 2015.
Delhi is situated in Seismic Zone IV, indicating a high risk of seismic activity. While the city has experienced several minor earthquakes over the years, experts caution that these do not necessarily indicate the likelihood of a major seismic event. The most significant earthquake in Delhi's recent history occurred on July 27, 1960, with a magnitude of 5.6, causing partial damage to some buildings in the New Delhi area.
Authorities have reported no casualties or significant property damage from today's earthquake. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and follow standard safety protocols during such events.