A 6.1 magnitude earthquake struck Kathmandu early Friday, injuring at least four people and causing damage in the Sindhupalchowk district. Tremors were also felt in Bihar, India, though no significant damage was reported. The event highlights Nepal’s vulnerability to seismic activity, reminiscent of the devastating 2015 earthquake.
Kathmandu was struck by a strong earthquake on Friday morning, registering a magnitude of 6.1. The quake occurred at 2:51 AM, with its epicenter located in Bhairabkunda, Sindhupalchowk district, around 65 kilometers east of Kathmandu. Reports indicated that at least four people sustained injuries in Kathmandu and surrounding areas due to the tremors, which also affected the Sindhupalchowk region, where some houses developed cracks.
The seismic event instigated panic in Kathmandu, prompting residents to evacuate their homes. Two individuals were injured in the capital, while an inmate in Chautara prison was hurt attempting to escape. Additionally, an elderly man in a remote village was injured while exiting his home post-quake, according to officials. Nepal is located in a highly seismic zone, leading to increased vulnerability to such natural disasters.
Tremors from the earthquake were also felt across various districts in Bihar, India, including Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, and several others near the Indo-Nepal border. Umesh Kumar Singh, a meteorologist from the Bihar government’s disaster management department, stated that the quake was detected around 2:35 AM, resulting in brief tremors that lasted several seconds. Fortunately, there have been no reports of damage or casualties in Bihar.
The National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre confirmed that the quake’s impact extended beyond Kathmandu, affecting regions in southern and eastern Nepal, generating significant concern among residents. The 2015 earthquake, which had a magnitude of 7.8, remains the deadliest in recent history, raising awareness about the seismic risks in this region.
In summary, a significant earthquake struck Kathmandu, resulting in injuries and causing structural damage mainly in Sindhupalchowk district. Tremors were felt across the border in Bihar, although no major damage occurred there. The risk of earthquakes in Nepal remains high due to its geological positioning, stressing the importance of preparedness and early warning systems.
Original Source: www.onmanorama.com
