Rajkot, Gujarat, experienced a series of seismic events over a 24-hour period, with seven earthquake tremors recorded. These light tremors did not result in any reported damage, according to official statements. The Centre for Seismology noted that the intensity of these quakes varied between 2.7 and 3.8 on the Richter scale.
As a precautionary measure following the continuous seismic activity, schools in the surrounding areas were declared closed. Authorities indicated that the epicenter of these tremors was located approximately 28 kilometers from Upleta. The recurring nature of these earthquakes has reportedly led to public apprehension regarding the possibility of a more significant seismic event.
Recent Tremors in Rajkot
On Friday morning, three distinct tremors were felt in the region. The first occurred at 6:19 AM, followed by additional quakes at 6:55 AM and 6:58 AM. The tremor at 6:19 AM registered a magnitude of 3.8. Additionally, a tremor was also experienced on Thursday night at 8:43 PM.
India’s Seismic Risk Assessment
In January 2025, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), a government institution, released an updated earthquake risk map for the country. This new assessment indicates that approximately 75% of India’s population now resides in areas categorized as “dangerous zones” for earthquakes. A significant change in the new map designates the entire Himalayan Range as an “Ultra-High Risk Zone (Zone VI).”
Scientists have observed that the tectonic plates beneath the Himalayas have remained stagnant for two centuries, suggesting a substantial build-up of stress. This geological condition implies that a highly powerful earthquake could occur in the region at any given time. The revised map also redefines seismic zoning, moving from a previous four-zone system (Zone II to V) to now include Zone VI for areas with the highest risk. Furthermore, 61% of the country’s land area is now classified under moderate to high-risk zones, reflecting an increased population exposure to seismic hazards compared to earlier assessments. The entire Himalayan belt, stretching from Kashmir to Arunachal, has been reclassified into the Ultra-High Risk Zone VI.
