Mild quake jolts Dharamsala

A mild earthquake measuring 3.9 on the Richter scale shook Dharamsala and its surrounding areas in Kangra district on Monday night, creating panic among residents. The tremors struck at 9.28 pm with epicentre located 5.8 km east of Dharamsala, according to initial seismic readings.

The quake, believed to be in the depth of 10 km, was felt more strongly near the epicentre, 23 km north-east of Dharamsala city. Locals reported light shaking of doors, windows and household items, while some stepped out of their homes. “It felt like a sudden jolt as if a heavy truck has passed by,” said Rajinder Kumar a resident of Sakoh village located on the outskirts of Dharamsala city.

The district administration said that no loss of life or property had been reported so far. District Magistrate Hemraj Bairwa advised people to remain calm and avoid spreading rumours.