Moderate Earthquake Shakes Balochistan; No Casualties Reported

Islamabad– A moderate earthquake struck several parts of Balochistan early Sunday morning, prompting panic among residents, though no casualties or property damage have been reported so far.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the tremor measured 5.3 on the Richter scale and occurred around 3:30 am local time (2230 GMT) at a shallow depth of 10 kilometres. The quake’s epicentre was recorded approximately 60 kilometres north-northeast of Barkhan, in the rugged terrain of Balochistan province.

Other seismological agencies reported slightly varying data. The German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) estimated the magnitude at 5.5, while the Euro-Mediterranean Seismological Centre placed the epicentre 149 kilometres west of Multan. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s National Seismic Monitoring Centre recorded the depth at 28 kilometres and located the epicentre about 56 kilometres northeast of Musakhel district.

Tremors were felt in Barkhan, Musakhel, and nearby regions, leading frightened residents to evacuate their homes and gather in open areas as a precaution.

“There are no immediate reports of damage or injuries,” said a spokesperson for the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). “We remain in contact with local authorities and continue to monitor the situation closely.”

Read more: Earthquake of magnitude 4.9 jolts Gwadar; No casualties reported

Pakistan is situated along a major tectonic boundary between the Indian and Eurasian plates, making it highly vulnerable to earthquakes. The mountainous and remote regions of Balochistan often present additional logistical challenges for emergency response efforts.