KARGIL: An earthquake of magnitude 5.2 jolted Kargil, Ladakh, early on Friday morning, causing tremors across Jammu and Kashmir. The earthquake, which occurred at 2:50 AM, was recorded at a depth of 15 kilometers, according to the National Center for Seismology. The tremors were felt across the region, with no immediate reports of significant damage or casualties.
The epicenter of the earthquake was located at latitude 33.37 N and longitude 76.76 E, in the Kargil district of Ladakh. The region lies in Seismic Zone-IV, which is known for its high earthquake risk due to the tectonically active Himalayas. This zone is considered highly vulnerable to seismic activity, with earthquakes being a frequent occurrence.
Leh and Ladakh, being part of the Himalayan range, are known for their susceptibility to earthquakes. According to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the country is divided into four seismic zones, with Zone V being the most earthquake-prone and Zone II being the least. Ladakh’s placement in Zone IV indicates a high risk of seismic events, making earthquake preparedness crucial for the region.
Authorities have urged residents to stay vigilant and follow safety measures while awaiting further reports on the impact of the earthquake.
Tags: Northlines, Jammu and Kashmir
