According to the Seismic Monitoring Centre of the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), three additional earthquake tremors, ranging in intensity from 2 to 3.1 magnitude, were recorded in the port city on Tuesday night. This marks the fourth consecutive day of seismic activity experienced in the region. The seismological center reported that the recent seismic events have brought the total number of tremors felt in Karachi to 26 since June 1.
In light of the concerning situation, Chief Meteorologist Amir Haider Laghari stated that mild tremors could continue for another week due to the ongoing movement of tectonic plates. Since Sunday, repeated mild tremors have been felt across Karachi’s Landhi, Quaidabad, Malir, and surrounding neighborhoods, causing unease among residents. However, no significant damage or injuries have been reported.
Cause of the Tremors
The chief meteorologist attributed the persistent seismic activity to the activation of the Landhi Fault Line, which he described as currently undergoing a normalization phase. According to Haider, the mild earthquakes may continue for up to another week as energy is being gradually released from the fault line. He explained that this slow release of energy is beneficial in preventing the risk of a major earthquake.
“This particular fault line has been activated after several decades,” he noted, adding that the shallow depth of the recent quakes is the reason they are being felt more intensely throughout the city. Haider emphasized that buildings located directly above the fault line should be engineered to withstand tremors of up to magnitude 6. He also pointed out that the fault lines running through Karachi have been historically identified and meticulously documented.
Responding to concerns about cracks developing in homes, Haider clarified that such issues are typically related to structural integrity and are not necessarily linked to seismic activity. He also mentioned the existence of another fault line near Thana Bula Khan, which contributes to the overall seismic activity in and around Karachi.
