Post by : Raman

On Sunday, September 14, 2025, the northeastern Indian state of Assam was shaken by a strong earthquake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale. The tremor was reported at 4:41 pm and its epicenter was in Udalguri district, near the border of Bhutan. The quake was shallow, with a depth of five kilometers, which made the shaking feel even stronger on the surface.

The earthquake spread fear in the state capital Guwahati and surrounding areas. Many people rushed outdoors, children cried in fear, and houses shook. Social media was flooded with personal experiences, where residents shared how beds, cupboards, and walls moved for several seconds.

Even though the quake caused panic, the Assam government confirmed that no deaths or major property damage had been reported.

First Reports of the Earthquake

According to the German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ), the earthquake measured 5.9 magnitude. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) also confirmed the quake, reporting the same time and epicenter.

People in Guwahati, Tezpur, Udalguri, Mangaldoi, and other nearby towns felt strong tremors. Some residents said the quake seemed “long and swinging,” lasting for several seconds, making it scarier than usual.

Local officials said that teams were sent out quickly to check for damage to bridges, schools, and government buildings. By evening, no reports of collapsed buildings or injuries were confirmed.

Voices From the Ground

Social media showed the real fear people went through during the tremors. Here are some of the common reactions:

• A Guwahati resident wrote: “Can’t imagine what just happened. The whole bed was shaking like a cradle. I thought the ceiling might fall. It was terrifying.”

• Another user said: “Earthquake… quite a long one. The jolts didn’t stop quickly. Everyone in my building ran out.”

• Some people shared short videos of ceiling fans swinging wildly and small objects falling from shelves.

Former Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also shared his concern:“Major earthquake in Assam. My prayers for everyone’s safety and well-being. Urge all to stay alert!”

Why the Earthquake Felt Strong

Even though the magnitude was 5.9, which is considered moderate to strong, the depth was only five km. Shallow earthquakes are usually felt more strongly because the energy is released closer to the surface.

Experts explained that the northeast region lies in a high seismic zone. Assam, along with states like Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Meghalaya, sits on complex tectonic plates where the Indian plate meets the Eurasian plate. This constant movement makes earthquakes common.

History of Earthquakes in Assam

Assam has a long history of earthquakes. Some of the strongest earthquakes in Indian history have taken place in this region.

• 1897 Great Assam Earthquake: Measured 8.1, destroyed Shillong and Guwahati, causing thousands of deaths.

• 1950 Assam-Tibet Earthquake: Measured 8.6, one of the largest in the world. It caused massive floods, landslides, and loss of life.

• 2016 Assam Earthquake: Measured 6.7, struck near Manipur and damaged several houses.

• 2021 Assam Earthquake: Measured 6.4, epicenter in Sonitpur. Cracks appeared in buildings, and people rushed outdoors.

This history shows why residents of Assam fear even moderate earthquakes. They know the region is prone to strong quakes, and memories of past destruction remain fresh.

Preparedness and Safety Measures

Disaster experts always remind people in the northeast to stay prepared. Here are some safety steps shared by officials and experts after the Sunday quake:

1. During an earthquake:

   • Do not panic.

   • Move to an open area away from trees, poles, or tall buildings.

   • If indoors, take cover under a sturdy table or stand near a strong wall.

   • Stay away from glass windows, mirrors, and heavy objects.

2. After an earthquake:

   • Do not use elevators.

   • Check for gas leaks and electrical short circuits.

   • Listen to official news updates and follow safety instructions.

   • Be prepared for aftershocks, which can come hours or even days later.

Authorities in Assam have urged schools, offices, and families to practice earthquake drills regularly. This helps reduce panic and confusion when a real tremor occurs.

Government and Public Response

The Assam government immediately activated emergency services. District authorities were asked to monitor the situation closely. Rescue teams and medical units were kept ready in case of any delayed reports of damage.

The good news was that mobile networks, power supply, and transport services continued without major disruption. This helped calm fears.

Many public figures posted on social media, encouraging people to stay alert but not spread rumors.

Emotional Impact on People

Even though no major damage happened, the emotional stress was very real. Earthquakes bring sudden fear because they strike without warning.

In Guwahati, some children refused to sleep alone after the quake. Elderly people felt dizziness and anxiety. Many families spent hours outside their homes until they felt safe going back inside.

Psychologists explain that such reactions are normal. They advise families to talk to children and assure them that they are safe, while also teaching them about earthquake safety.

Lessons From the Earthquake

This earthquake serves as a warning and lesson for the region. It shows that:

• Assam needs stronger building codes to make sure houses, schools, and hospitals can survive earthquakes.

• Regular safety drills in schools and workplaces are necessary.

• Public awareness campaigns should be run in every district to teach simple safety steps.

• Government and NGOs should keep emergency kits ready with water, food, first-aid, and blankets.

Experts also say that new construction in Assam should follow earthquake-resistant designs, especially in cities like Guwahati, where the population is growing fast.

Nature reminded Assam once again that it is sitting in one of the world’s most earthquake-prone zones. This time, the people were lucky. The quake was strong enough to shake buildings but not strong enough to cause destruction.

But luck cannot be the only defense. If the magnitude had been just a little higher, the results could have been tragic. Preparedness is the only way forward.

The government, civil engineers, and the public must work together. Stronger infrastructure, better planning, and public awareness are the keys to reducing disaster risks.

The earthquake of September 14 will be remembered not for destruction, but for the fear it created. It is a clear reminder: Assam must always stay alert, always stay ready.

The 5.9-magnitude earthquake in Assam shook the state but spared it from disaster. No deaths, no collapsed buildings, and no major injuries were reported. But the fear in people’s hearts shows how vulnerable the region is.

Every tremor is a message from the earth: “Be prepared.” The people of Assam and the government must take this message seriously. Disaster does not give warnings, but preparedness can save countless lives.

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