A 4.8 magnitude earthquake struck parts of Balochistan on Wednesday, sending mild tremors through several areas including Zhob and Chaman. The National Seismic Monitoring Centre, which works under the Pakistan Meteorological Department, recorded the quake at a depth of 15 kilometres below the surface.
According to the centre, the epicentre was located 122 kilometres northeast of Zhob. Residents in the affected towns reported feeling the ground shake for a few seconds, but there were no immediate reports of any casualties or damage to buildings or infrastructure. Local authorities continue to monitor the situation as a precaution.
Earthquakes are not uncommon in this region of Balochistan. The area sits near active fault lines, which means occasional seismic activity is expected. People in Zhob and Chaman are quite familiar with such events, though many still feel uneasy when the ground starts moving, especially if it happens without warning.
Looking back, a stronger 5.9 magnitude earthquake hit the same region on 7 October 2021. That quake, which also had its epicentre near Harnai at a depth of 15 kilometres, struck around 3:20 in the morning while most people were asleep. It claimed at least 20 lives and left more than 300 people injured. The worst damage was seen in Harnai, where several buildings collapsed and over 70 houses were badly affected. Aftershocks continued for days, and both rescue teams and the military were quickly deployed to help those in need.
More recently, in March 2024, a 5.4 magnitude quake jolted Chaman and surrounding areas once again. That tremor occurred around 5:35 in the morning with its epicentre about 150 kilometres southwest of Quetta at a depth of 35 kilometres. Tremors were also felt in Qila Abdullah, Noshki, Pishin, Dalbandin, Chagai and Quetta itself.
While Wednesday’s 4.8 magnitude earthquake was milder and caused no reported harm, it still serves as a reminder of the seismic risks in Balochistan. Authorities advise residents to stay prepared, keep emergency supplies ready, and follow official updates from the National Seismic Monitoring Centre. For now, the situation remains calm, but people in Zhob, Chaman and nearby towns are staying alert.
