Seismic danger

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, a 4.8 magnitude earthquake struck on Saturday (February 15) at 10:48?pm. The epicentre was located eight kilometres southeast of Rawalpindi, at a depth of 17 kilometres. Although no casualties or property damage were reported, the panic that ensued – people rushing out of their homes and offices – serves as a stark reminder of our country’s inherent seismic risks.

This event should prompt authorities to review and upgrade building codes and emergency response protocols, especially in our federal capital and surrounding areas. I urge government agencies and city planners to invest in better public awareness campaigns and preparedness drills. As the population grows and urban densities increase, we must ensure that all major cities are equipped to handle such natural calamities. It is our collective responsibility to safeguard lives and property through resilient infrastructure and efficient disaster management systems.

Yusra Iqbal

Karachi