A 4.9 magnitude earthquake hit Gwadar and nearby areas in Balochistan on June 14. The sudden shaking caused brief panic among local residents, but thankfully, there were no reports of injuries or damage.
According to the National Seismic Monitoring Centre, the earthquake’s epicentre was located about 40 kilometers southwest of Pasni. It occurred at a depth of 14 kilometers below the earth’s surface.
This region has been experiencing frequent earthquakes in recent weeks, along with cities like Karachi and Peshawar. Experts say this is because Pakistan lies on a major fault line, where two tectonic plates, the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate — meet. When these plates move, they create pressure underground, which can lead to earthquakes.
Even though the recent quake was not very strong, it serves as a reminder of how vulnerable certain parts of Pakistan are to natural disasters. Earthquakes are common in this part of the world, and while many are minor, stronger ones can cause serious damage if communities are not well-prepared.
Authorities advise people to stay calm during such events and to follow safety guidelines, such as staying away from windows and heavy objects, and moving to open areas if possible. Emergency services are also encouraged to stay alert and ready to respond in case a stronger quake hits in the future.
Preparedness and awareness can make a big difference in saving lives during natural disasters like earthquakes.