A 3.7 magnitude earthquake struck Gujarat’s Kutch district near Dholavira on Monday morning, marking the fourth seismic event in the region within the past nine days, according to the Institute of Seismological Research (ISR). The tremor, which occurred at approximately 10:44 am, had its epicenter located 76 kilometers north-northeast of Lakhpat, as reported by the Gandhinagar-based ISR. Local authorities confirmed that no casualties or property damage were reported following the event.
The Kutch district, known for its high seismic risk, has experienced a series of tremors recently. The ISR noted that this latest earthquake follows a 3.2 magnitude tremor on December 7 and a 4.0 magnitude event on November 18 in the same district. Additionally, a 4.2 magnitude earthquake was recorded in nearby Patan district on November 15, highlighting the region’s ongoing seismic activity. The Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority (GSDMA) emphasizes that Gujarat has faced nine major earthquakes over the past two centuries, with the devastating 2001 Kutch earthquake being one of the most destructive, claiming nearly 13,800 lives and injuring 167,000 others.
Monday’s tremor is the second seismic event in Kutch this month with a magnitude exceeding 3.0, underscoring the region’s vulnerability to earthquakes. The ISR’s data indicates that the Kutch area, particularly around fault lines near Bhachau, Rapar, and Dholavira, frequently experiences seismic activity due to its location in a high-risk seismic zone. Despite the recurrence of tremors, the district administration reported no immediate impacts from the latest event, providing some relief to residents.
The GSDMA continues to monitor the region closely, as Kutch’s geological setting makes it prone to both minor and significant earthquakes. Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and prepared, given the area’s history of seismic events. Sandesh reported that the recent spate of tremors has heightened local awareness, though no significant disruptions have occurred thus far.
