QUETTA: A mild earthquake measuring 3.6 on the Richter scale struck Khuzdar and nearby localities in Balochistan late Sunday night, causing brief panic among residents, though no casualties or property damage were reported.
According to a private news channel, the tremors prompted people to rush out of their homes in fear. Many residents could be seen gathering in open spaces, reciting verses from the Holy Quran in hopes of safety.
The National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC) in Islamabad confirmed that the earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 45 kilometers south of Khuzdar, at a shallow depth of 12 kilometers beneath the earth’s surface. The shallow depth amplified the shaking, making the tremors more noticeable despite the low magnitude.
Seismic activity is not uncommon in Balochistan, a region that lies within a seismically active zone. While Sunday night’s earthquake was relatively mild, it served as a reminder of the vulnerability of many parts of Pakistan to natural disasters, particularly earthquakes.
Authorities have reported that no damage to infrastructure or injuries to residents have been recorded so far. However, local disaster management teams remain on alert and are monitoring the situation closely.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has advised residents to remain calm but vigilant, as aftershocks can occasionally follow initial seismic events. Local officials also urged citizens to ensure their homes and buildings are structurally sound and to follow basic safety protocols in case of future tremors.
In recent years, the region has experienced several low to moderate intensity earthquakes, prompting calls for improved preparedness, public awareness, and stronger building regulations in quake-prone areas.
While no emergency has been declared, the brief episode of panic highlights the need for ongoing public education on earthquake safety and disaster response. Authorities have assured the public that all necessary measures are in place to respond swiftly should any further seismic activity occur.
