Earthquake of 4.7 magnitude strikes Alwar, tremors felt in Delhi-NCR

Scientists are unequivocal in asserting that no unusual seismic activity is taking place around Delhi in the last few months.

Detection of earthquakes, especially those of smaller magnitude, being recorded in an area also depends on the number of seismic recorders installed in that area. The Delhi-NCR has been identified as the second highest seismic hazard zone (Zone IV).

The area around Delhi has the most dense concentration of seismometers anywhere in the country, even more than the Himalayan region which is seismically much more active.

Out of the 115 detectors installed in the country, 16 are in or around Delhi. As a result, even the earthquakes of smaller magnitude, those that are not even felt by most people, are recorded, and this information is publicly accessible.

Earthquakes of magnitude four or below hardly cause any damage anywhere and are mostly inconsequential for practical purposes.

The historical earthquake catalogue shows that there were strong earthquakes in the Delhi-NCR — of 6.5 magnitude at Delhi in 1720; 6.8 at Mathura in 1803; 5.5 near Mathura in 1842; 6.7 near Bulandshahar in 1956; 6 near Faridabad in 1960 and 5.8 near Moradabad in 1966.

(Inputs from PTI)