Karachi:
The port city has experienced an unusual increase in seismic activity, with 19 minor earthquakes registered between June 1 and June 3, according to the National Warning Center of Tsunami (NTWC) of the Department of Meteorology of Pakistan.
The strongest tremor occurred on Sunday night, measuring 3.6 on the Richter scale. The data published by the NTWC indicate that the earthquake hit at 5:33 pm on Sunday and was the most intense of recent seismic events. The weakest tremor, registered in the city of DHA, measured 2.1 in magnitude.
The officials of the Tsunami center described the situation as unprecedented, stating that Karachi had never experienced such a high number of tremors located in such a short period.
“There is no historical precedent for this level of seismic activity in the city,” said a NTWC official, qualifying the “very unusual” trend.
Of the 19 registered tremors, 11 focused on the district of Malir, while others felt in the southwest parts of Korangi and the northeast of DHA.
Although lower, the frequency has caused fear among people.
The authorities have not yet determined the cause behind the sudden group of tremors, but monitoring efforts have intensified. Seismologists urge citizens to keep calm while they remain alert, as an additional evaluation continues.
Cm cites concern for pre-chocas
While calling the “something good” low-scale tremors due to the release of Earth’s energy, Sindh Prime Minister Murad Ali Shah also warned about the possibility of an important earthquake, citing concerns about pre-shocks that often precede larger seismic events.
“I studied earthquake engineering a long time ago … these low -scale tremors are really good: the earth is releasing its energy,” he added.
In statements to journalists after inaugurating a rehabilitation center for children with physical conditions and neurias in Karachi, Shah criticized the decision to evacuate prison inmates due to tremors.
