Mild earthquake tremors were reported in parts of Rajasthan early Saturday morning following a 3.5 magnitude earthquake near Sikar district. The quake, occurring around 6:30 a.m., had its epicenter located about 69 km northwest of Jaipur at a shallow depth of approximately 5 km beneath the Earth’s surface.
Residents in several areas of Sikar district, including Khatushyamji, Palsana, and Dhingpur, felt the tremors, lasting for one to two seconds. While some locals in Palsana mentioned doors and windows rattling briefly and hearing unusual sounds, authorities confirmed no casualties or property damage.
Seismologists explain that shallow earthquakes, even of low intensity, can be more perceptible as seismic waves travel shorter distances to the surface. The Bureau of Indian Standards had recently updated the seismic risk map, placing cities like Jaipur, Alwar, and Bhiwadi in higher-risk zones for earthquakes of magnitude 5 to 6 on the Richter scale.
Despite Sikar not being in the highest-risk zone, experts note its occasional mild tremors due to its proximity to Jaipur. Geologists also suggest that increased human activities like construction and mining in the Aravalli Range could potentially contribute to minor seismic events in the region.
