Mild Earthquake Strikes Assam’s Cachar District; No Damage Reported:

An earthquake measuring 3.2 on the Richter scale was recorded in Assam’s Cachar district on Friday evening, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS). The tremor caused residents to briefly vacate their homes in fear, although no immediate reports of damage or casualties have been received.

Earthquake Details from the National Center for Seismology

The seismic activity occurred at 6:35 PM, with its epicenter located in Cachar district, Assam. As per NCS data, the earthquake originated at a depth of 25 kilometers beneath the earth’s surface. While the tremor was mild, it was clearly felt in the local area, prompting precautionary evacuations by residents.

EQ of M: 3.2, On: 21/03/2025 18:35:13 IST, Lat: 24.82 N, Long: 92.72 E, Depth: 25 Km, Location: Cachar, Assam.
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— National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) March 21, 2025

Local Response to the Tremor

Following the earthquake, people from affected areas came out of their homes and workplaces due to concerns about aftershocks. Most returned after ensuring their safety. Emergency services and local authorities have not reported any structural damage or need for evacuation.

Seismic Vulnerability of Northeast India

Northeast India lies in one of the most earthquake-prone zones of the country. Assam, in particular, is categorized under high seismic risk due to the complex geological structure and tectonic activity in the region. The Indian tectonic plate’s collision with the Eurasian plate creates ongoing pressure, making states like Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh vulnerable to earthquakes.

Scientific Explanation Behind Earthquakes

Earthquakes occur due to the sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust caused by the movement of tectonic plates. In India, the primary source of seismic activity is the Himalayan region, where the Indian plate pushes against the Eurasian plate. This tectonic stress builds up over time and is released in the form of tremors or earthquakes, especially affecting regions such as Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and the Northeast.