Kohlu jolted a gain as third earthquake hits Balochistan in two days

QUETTA: A series of earthquakes continued to jolt Kohlu district in Balochistan on Saturday, with a third tremor striking the area within just two days, according to the National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC) in Quetta.

The latest quake measured 4.3 magnitude, with its epicentre located 40 kilometres north of Kohlu at a shallow depth of 15 kilometres. No casualties or damage have been reported so far.

The fresh tremor follows two earlier earthquakes the previous day, including a 5.1-magnitude quake that caused injuries and damage in parts of Musa Khel.

At least three people, including a child, were injured, while around 70 houses were partially damaged in Kingri, according to officials.

That earlier quake, recorded at a depth of 17 kilometres, had its epicentre 60 kilometres northeast of Kohlu, with tremors felt across Zhob, Barkhan, and Rakhni.

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The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) said three tremors were recorded in a single day at 10:25 am, 10:58 am, and 4:49 pm.

Residents reported repeated shocks throughout the day, adding to growing concern in the region.

Separately, a 4.9-magnitude earthquake also shook Lahore and adjoining areas earlier this month, prompting panic as people rushed outdoors.

Pakistan lies along the boundary of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it highly vulnerable to seismic activity. The country has witnessed several major earthquakes in recent decades, including the devastating 2005 Kashmir earthquake that killed over 73,000 people.

More recently, a 2021 quake in Harnai, Balochistan, claimed at least 20 lives and disrupted rescue operations due to landslides.

Experts warn that Pakistan’s rugged terrain makes emergency response difficult, highlighting the urgent need for stronger preparedness and disaster management systems.