Earthquake Jolts Assam: Strong Tremors Felt Across Guwahati, Bhutan, and North Bengal

A sudden jolt of panic swept across Assam on Saturday evening as a moderate earthquake of magnitude 5.8 struck the state, with its tremors widely felt in Guwahati, North Bengal, and neighboring Bhutan.

The quake hit at around 4:41 PM (IST), with the epicenter located in Udalguri district of Assam. According to initial seismic observations, the earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of about 5 kilometers, making the tremors more strongly felt on the surface despite its moderate magnitude.

Panic in Guwahati and Beyond

In the state’s capital, Guwahati, people rushed out of their homes, offices, and marketplaces as buildings swayed for a few seconds. Social media platforms were instantly flooded with residents sharing their experiences, some posting videos of furniture, ceiling fans, and household items shaking.

The tremors weren’t confined to Assam alone. North Bengal towns such as Siliguri reported mild vibrations, while parts of Bhutan also experienced the quake. The widespread nature of the tremors left many worried about aftershocks or further seismic activity.

Official Statements and Situation Assessment

Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reassured citizens soon after the incident, stating that there were no reports of casualties or major structural damage. District authorities across Assam were directed to monitor the situation closely and provide updates on any hidden damage, particularly in remote or rural areas where communication can be slower.

Disaster management teams have been put on alert to carry out inspections of key infrastructure, including bridges, roads, and government buildings. Engineers have also been tasked with assessing whether older structures in quake-prone zones suffered cracks or weakening.

Why Assam is Vulnerable

The earthquake once again highlights the geological sensitivity of the northeastern region of India. Assam lies within Seismic Zone V, the most active earthquake-prone zone in the country. The collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, along with the fragile Himalayan fault lines, make the region highly susceptible to frequent earthquakes, both moderate and strong.

Experts point out that shallow quakes like this one, though not always destructive, can be alarming because their tremors travel quickly and are felt more strongly by people on the ground.

What Residents Experienced

Residents across Guwahati described the moment as “sudden” and “sharp,” with many feeling the tremors for 5–10 seconds. In some residential complexes, alarms went off, and people rushed down staircases in panic. Others gathered in open spaces until they felt safe enough to return indoors.

A shopkeeper in Panbazar said he saw items on his shelves rattling, while in Beltola, a family reported running out of their apartment after their glass windows began vibrating. Schools and offices that were open at the time immediately carried out standard earthquake safety protocols, urging people to stay calm and avoid stampedes.

Safety and Preparedness

Though this particular quake did not result in destruction, experts emphasize the importance of preparedness in seismic zones:

• Residents are advised to avoid standing near glass windows or heavy furniture during tremors.
• Drop, Cover, and Hold On remains the most effective safety practice indoors.
• Communities should have emergency kits ready, including water, first-aid, and important documents.
• Authorities need to ensure earthquake-resistant construction practices in both urban and rural areas.

Looking Ahead

While Saturday’s quake has not caused immediate harm, the event serves as a stark reminder of the northeast’s seismic vulnerability. Authorities continue to monitor the possibility of aftershocks in the coming days. For now, life in Guwahati and surrounding areas has returned to normal, but the scare has reignited conversations about safety, preparedness, and the need for stronger infrastructure in Assam.

The earthquake may have lasted only seconds, but it left a lasting impression on the people who felt its force, reminding everyone that nature’s unpredictability always demands respect and readiness.