Ahmedabad/Rajkot: A series of mild to moderate earthquake tremors jolted parts of Gujarat’s Saurashtra region, particularly Rajkot district, triggering panic among residents and prompting the administration to shut schools as a precautionary measure. The tremors were felt multiple times within a short span, raising concerns among locals, though no loss of life or property has been reported so far.
According to official sources, the earth shook at least four times within 12 hours, with earthquake magnitudes ranging between 2.7 and 3.8 on the Richter scale. Local residents, however, claimed that tremors were felt as many as seven times over the last 24 hours.
The most intense tremor, measuring 3.8 in magnitude, was recorded early Friday morning, jolting people out of their sleep. Alarmed residents rushed out of their homes in fear as buildings vibrated briefly. Following this, authorities decided to close schools to ensure the safety of students.
Areas Affected
The tremors were primarily felt in Upleta and Dhoraji areas of Rajkot district. According to the Seismology Centre, the epicenter of the strongest quake was located approximately 28 kilometers from Upleta.
Timeline of Tremors
- Thursday, 8:44 pm: First tremor of magnitude 3.3 recorded
- Additional minor tremors followed late into the night
- Friday, 6:19 am and 6:58 am: Stronger tremors of 3.8 magnitude felt, causing widespread panic
No Casualties Reported
Despite repeated tremors, officials confirmed that there has been no damage to life or property. Disaster management teams remain on alert, and authorities are closely monitoring seismic activity in the region.
Heightened Alert Amid Major Event
The tremors come at a sensitive time, as the Gujarat government recently launched the ‘Somnath Swabhiman Parv’. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Somnath on January 11, followed by a visit to Rajkot, adding to the administration’s preparedness and vigilance.
Officials have urged citizens not to panic, assuring that the situation is under control. People have been advised to follow safety guidelines and remain alert in case of further tremors.
The state disaster response machinery continues to assess the situation, while seismologists keep a close watch on aftershocks in the Saurashtra region.