Delhi-NCR, July 10, 2025:
A 4.4-magnitude earthquake struck Jhajjar, Haryana on Thursday morning, jolting residents across Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR). The tremor was felt in Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Sonipat, and parts of western Uttar Pradesh, triggering widespread alarm though no immediate casualties or structural damage were reported.
The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) confirmed that the earthquake occurred at 9:04 AM IST, with its epicentre located 3 km northeast of Jhajjar, at a depth of 10 km.
Widespread Tremors Spark Morning Panic
Residents in high-rise apartments across Delhi and its adjoining regions were startled by the sudden, intense vibrations. Many reported feeling a wave-like motion, with ceiling fans, light fixtures, and doors swaying for several seconds.
In Dwarka, a resident said, “I was brushing my teeth when the whole mirror started shaking. My children ran out of their room, scared. We immediately rushed outside with our neighbours.”
Several videos and images surfaced online showing people evacuating buildings, gathering in parking lots, and open spaces as a precaution.
Metro and Office Disruptions
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) confirmed that trains were temporarily halted following safety protocols. Operations resumed shortly after safety checks were completed. Commuters experienced brief delays during peak office hours, and passengers in stations were guided to stay calm.
IT parks in Noida and Gurugram also saw brief evacuations. Office employees reported alarms going off and emergency protocols being activated. While most buildings had staff return after 15–20 minutes, some companies allowed employees to work from home for the rest of the day.
Government & Emergency Response
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), in coordination with state disaster agencies, activated monitoring protocols and issued public advisories on earthquake safety.
“There is no reported damage or casualty at this point,” said an official from the Ministry of Home Affairs. “However, this incident reinforces the need for better preparedness, especially in high-density zones like Delhi.”
The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) tweeted, urging people to remain alert and to avoid elevators during and after tremors. They also shared steps for earthquake preparedness:
- Drop to the ground
- Take cover under sturdy furniture
- Hold on until shaking stops
Epicentre in Seismic Zone IV
Jhajjar district, where the quake originated, is part of Seismic Zone IV—a high-risk area for earthquakes. Delhi and adjoining regions lie in a zone susceptible to moderate to severe seismic activity due to multiple fault lines and underground ridges.
“This quake, although moderate in magnitude, was shallow and thus felt more strongly,” explained Dr. M.S. Rana, a senior seismologist at the India Meteorological Department (IMD). “Delhi-NCR’s vulnerability increases with rapid urbanisation, high-rise construction, and poor compliance with seismic norms.”
Comparisons to Previous Earthquakes
The region has experienced several similar tremors in recent years:
- February 2025: 4.0-magnitude quake with epicentre near Dhaula Kuan
- November 2023: 5.6-magnitude quake in Nepal that sent tremors through Delhi
- May 2020: Twin quakes near Rohtak (4.5 and 4.6 magnitude) felt across NCR
Although none of these caused major damage, they underline the recurring nature of seismic activity in the region.
Reactions from Citizens and Social Media
Online platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Reddit were flooded with reactions moments after the tremor. Hashtags like #DelhiEarthquake, #JhajjarQuake, and #Tremors began trending.
A user from Greater Noida posted, “Felt the bed move, fans swing. First thought it was my imagination till I saw the ceiling light moving. #Earthquake.”
In Old Delhi, several shopkeepers rushed out of their establishments, fearing a bigger shock to follow.
Emergency Services on Alert
Emergency services, including fire departments and ambulances, were placed on standby across Delhi, Haryana, and western UP. Control rooms reported a surge in calls, though most were precautionary.
“We received nearly 400 calls in the first 30 minutes, mainly about structural noise, cracks, or vibration reports,” said a Delhi Police control room operator. “There’s no cause for alarm at present.”
Focus on Preparedness
Urban development bodies, including the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and Noida Authority, have been asked to conduct audits of building compliance with seismic codes.
Experts say that schools, hospitals, and government offices must run regular drills, update emergency exit plans, and reinforce old structures.
“Even a 4.4-magnitude quake can be dangerous in areas with poor construction practices,” said Prof. Anita Verma, a disaster risk expert from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). “We’re sitting on ticking fault lines. Preparedness is not optional.”
What to Do During an Earthquake – Key Tips
- Drop to the ground
- Take Cover under a desk or table
- Hold On until the shaking stops
- Stay away from glass, windows, outside walls
- Do not use elevators
- Evacuate only after shaking stops and it’s safe
The NDRF has advised citizens to prepare emergency kits, including water, flashlight, basic first aid, and important documents.
Conclusion
Thursday morning’s earthquake in Jhajjar may not have resulted in serious damage, but it was a stark reminder of Delhi-NCR’s seismic vulnerability. As tremors become a more frequent reality, city planners, residents, and institutions must invest in disaster awareness and infrastructure resilience. With over 30 million people living in the region, even moderate earthquakes demand a proactive response, not just reactive measures.
Authorities continue to monitor the region for potential aftershocks and have urged residents to stay informed via official channels.
