Residents of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) were jolted awake by strong tremors early Monday morning as a 4.0 magnitude earthquake struck the area. The epicenter was identified near Durgabai Deshmukh College of Special Education in south Delhi's Dhaula Kuan, according to an official cited by news agency PTI.

The National Centre for Seismology reported that the quake occurred at a shallow depth of five kilometers at 5:36 am. Witnesses described hearing a loud rumbling sound accompanying the tremors, which experts believe may have been due to the shallow depth and the release of tectonic energy.

Panic-stricken residents rushed out of their homes as ceiling fans and other household items shook. Videos capturing the frightened reactions and trembling objects quickly spread across social media platforms. Fortunately, no immediate damage or casualties were reported.

Officials noted that the Dhaula Kuan region, which is situated near a lake, has experienced low-intensity earthquakes intermittently over the years, including a 3.3 magnitude tremor in 2015.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to urge citizens to remain calm and stay vigilant for possible aftershocks. "Tremors were felt in Delhi and surrounding areas. I urge everyone to stay calm, follow safety guidelines, and stay alert for aftershocks. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation," he posted.

POLITICAL LEADERS EXPRESS CONCERN

Several political figures acknowledged the earthquake and expressed their concern for public safety. BJP leader Tajinder Singh Bagga simply questioned, "Earthquake?" on social media, while Congress leader Alka Lamba echoed a similar sentiment.

Delhi’s caretaker Chief Minister Atishi shared a message offering prayers for the well-being of citizens. "A strong earthquake just struck Delhi. I pray for everyone’s safety," she wrote. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal reshared her post, reiterating his hopes for everyone's security.

The Delhi Police reassured residents via social media, posting, "We hope you all are safe, Delhi! For any emergency help, dial 112."

The tremors left many residents shocked, as they described the shaking as intense despite the relatively moderate 4.0 magnitude. Experts noted that Delhi-NCR lies in Seismic Zone IV, a region vulnerable to moderate to strong earthquakes, highlighting the ongoing risk faced by the area.