Mild earthquake shakes Mandi; 1905 temblor in Himachal had claimed 20,000 lives

Mandi: The residents of Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh experienced mild tremors on Sunday (February 23, 2025) morning, as reported by the National Centre for Seismology (NCS).

The earthquake, measuring 3.7 on the Richter scale, struck at 8.42 am, with its epicentre located in the Kiaragi area of Sundernagar in Mandi district.

The tremors were felt at a depth of approximately 5 km. Although some individuals rushed out of their homes upon feeling the tremors, the low intensity meant that many others were unaware of the seismic activity.

Several districts fall under seismic Zone 5

The districts of Chamba, Shimla, Kullu, Lahaul-Spiti, Kangra, Kinnaur and Mandi in Himachal Pradesh fall under seismic Zone 5, an area known for its vulnerability to earthquakes. This region frequently experiences seismic activity, raising concerns among residents and authorities alike.

The memory of the devastating Kangra earthquake of 1905 looms large in the history of Himachal Pradesh.
On April 4, 1905, this catastrophic event registered a magnitude of 7.8 on the Richter scale. The disaster claimed the lives of approximately 20,000 people and resulted in the destruction of over 50,000 homes.

The earthquake wreaked havoc in Kangra, Dharamshala and surrounding areas, damaging historical buildings and temples. The ground split open in several locations, leading to landslides that further exacerbated the devastation.

Long-lasting impact of the 1905 earthquake

The impact of the 1905 earthquake was so profound that its horrors remained etched in the memories of the local populace for decades.

Following this disaster, Himachal Pradesh was officially designated as an earthquake-prone region, prompting scientists to closely monitor seismic activities in the area.

Munish Sood(Mandi)