A moderate earthquake measuring 4.6 on the Richter scale struck Hingoli district in Maharashtra on Wednesday, causing some panic in the area but no major damage or casualties were reported, the central government said.
The earthquake had sent people rushing out of their homes and workplaces as a precaution.
That earthquake took place in the early hours of the day and the epicentre was in the vicinity of Hingoli.
The tremors were only for a few seconds but strong enough for residents in various areas of Marathwada to notice.
Local government and disaster management teams immediately came to the scene to assess the situation.
Local officials conducted initial inspections and reported that there was “no significant structural damage” to buildings, roads or public infrastructure.
Emergency services were on high alert throughout the day and aftershocks were kept on track as well.
Residents described tremor-flinging ceiling fans, rumblings in their home and the sound of the door shaking and household items vibrating during the shaking.
Many families gathered in open spaces until authorities confirmed that there was no danger: schools, offices and businesses resumed normal operations after safety checks were completed.
The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) listed it as a moderate earthquake at 4.6.
While earthquakes of this intensity can be felt over a wide area, they generally cause little damage especially in areas where buildings are designed in accordance with seismic safety guidelines.
Maharashtra is not one of the most earthquake-prone states in India but some parts of Marathwada and Vidarbha have experienced occasional seismic activity over the years.
Earthquake researchers say tremors are a result of geological stress inside our earth’s crust and they are not unusual in intraplate regions.
Disaster management officials said people need to be aware of earthquake safety precautions. People should stay away from windows, heavy furniture and electrical installations during an earthquake.
If you are indoors, shelter under a sturdy table or desk and protect your head and neck. Those outdoors should move to open areas away from buildings, trees and power lines.
Authorities also advised preparing emergency kits containing essentials such as drinking water, medicines, flashlights, and important documents.
Public awareness and preparedness are key when disasters occur.
While the earthquake was briefly alarming to residents, the fact that nobody was injured and property damage was not significant helped.
The district administration said it would keep track of the activity and work on it with the National Centre for Seismology and the other relevant agencies.
Maharashtra's disaster management systems are continuing to be improved so there is no immediate need for alarm, officials say.
Citizens are kept updated through official government alerts and safety advice if earthquakes occur later.
