Karachi:
The port city has experienced an unusual peak in seismic activity, with 19 gentle earthquakes recorded between June 1 and June 3, according to the National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) of the Pakistani meteorological department.
The strongest tremor occurred Sunday evening, measuring 3.6 on the Richter scale. The data published by the NTWC indicate that the earthquake struck at 5:33 p.m. on Sunday and was the most intense of recent seismic events. The weakest tremor, recorded in the city of Dha, measured 2.1 in amplitude.
Tsunami Center officials described the situation as unprecedented, declaring that Karachi had never experienced such a high number of tremors located in such a short time.
“There is no historical precedent for this level of seismic activity in the city,” noted an NTWC official, calling for the “very unusual” trend.
Of the 19 tremors recorded, 11 were centered in the District of Malir, while others felt in the southwest parts of Korangi and in the parts of the northeast of DHA.
Although a minor, the frequency has aroused people’s fear.
The authorities have not yet determined the cause behind the sudden group of tremors, but the surveillance efforts have intensified. Seismologists urged citizens to remain calm while remaining vigilant, while a more in -depth evaluation continues.
CM cites concerns about pre-chocs
While calling on the short-scale tremors “a good thing” due to the release of earth energy, the chief minister of Sindh Murad Ali Shah also warned the possibility of a major earthquake, citing worries about the pre-shocs which often precede more important seismic events.
“I studied the engineering of earthquakes a long time ago … These short-scale tremors are actually a good thing-the land released its energy,” he added.
Addressing journalists after inaugurating a rehabilitation center for children with physical and neurodevelopmental conditions in Karachi, Shah criticized the decision to evacuate prison prisoners due to the tremors.
