An earthquake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale struck the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border region on Friday evening, with tremors felt across several parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
According to initial data, the quake occurred at 16:12:58 UTC with its epicentre located at coordinates 36.52°N latitude and 71.01°E longitude, at a depth of 175 kilometres.
There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties, but the moderate tremors in the late evening triggered panic among residents in parts of the Kashmir Valley.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Tremors were also felt in parts of North India, including Punjab, Haryana and Delhi.
According to data from earthquake monitoring organisations, approximately 16 mild to moderate earthquakes measuring between 2 and 5 on the Richter scale have been recorded in Jammu and Kashmir over the past one month.
Seismic activity in the region has increased in recent times, though most quakes have remained mild and non-destructive.
However, some earthquakes originating in Afghanistan have caused significant destruction and loss of life in remote areas, including northern parts bordering Tajikistan. Eight people have, reportedly, died owing to the quakes in Afghanistan.
Data shows that a total of 280 earthquakes with a magnitude of four or above have struck within 300 km of Jammu and Kashmir in the past 10 years. On average, the region experiences 28 earthquakes per year, or about two per month.
