A mild earthquake of magnitude 3.6 on the Richter scale struck Mandi town in Himachal Pradesh on Saturday afternoon, with no reports of casualties or damage to property. The tremors were felt at 3:49 pm local time, causing brief moments of concern among residents but resulting in no significant impact.
Details of the Seismic Event
The National Center for Seismology promptly shared the details of the earthquake on the X platform, providing precise information about the event. According to their post, the earthquake occurred at 15:49:15 IST on January 24, 2026. The epicenter was located at coordinates 31.50 degrees North latitude and 77.01 degrees East longitude, with a shallow depth of 5 kilometers, placing it directly under Mandi in Himachal Pradesh.
Immediate Response and Safety Measures
Local authorities and disaster management teams were immediately alerted following the tremors. Preliminary assessments confirmed that the earthquake was mild in nature, and no structural damage or injuries were reported in the affected area. Residents were advised to remain calm and follow standard safety protocols in case of aftershocks, although none have been reported so far.
Geological Context and Regional Seismic Activity
Himachal Pradesh, located in the Himalayan region, is prone to seismic activity due to its position along tectonic plate boundaries. Earthquakes of this magnitude are relatively common in the area and often serve as reminders of the region's geological dynamics. Experts note that while such tremors are typically harmless, they underscore the importance of earthquake preparedness and resilient infrastructure in vulnerable zones.
The swift reporting by the National Center for Seismology highlights advancements in India's seismic monitoring capabilities, enabling timely updates and public awareness. As of now, life in Mandi and surrounding areas has returned to normal, with no further disturbances anticipated from this event.
