At 6:50 AM today, a 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Kathmandu and several South Asian countries, with its epicenter located near Shigatse in Tibet, China. The tremors were felt across Nepal, India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and parts of China, causing panic and prompting citizens to rush out of their homes.

Impact in Nepal and South Asia

In Kathmandu Valley, strong tremors lasting for a few minutes were reported. While detailed assessments are pending, initial reports suggest damage to older buildings and some structural collapses. Moderate tremors were also felt in other parts of Nepal, as well as in India's Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.

The epicenter, confirmed to be 35 kilometers from Shigatse, affected several regions in the vicinity, highlighting the seismic vulnerability of South Asia.

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Nepal’s History with Earthquakes

Nepal lies in a seismically active region due to the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. Historically, it has experienced devastating earthquakes:

• The 1934 Nepal-Bihar Earthquake caused massive destruction in Kathmandu Valley, claiming thousands of lives and leveling historic landmarks.
• The 2015 Gorkha Earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.8, resulted in nearly 9,000 deaths, displaced millions, and destroyed invaluable cultural heritage sites.

These disasters underline the recurring seismic risks faced by the region.

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Precautionary Measures and Future Steps

With its dense population and fragile infrastructure, Kathmandu remains at high risk from earthquakes. Authorities are emphasizing the need for retrofitting older buildings, constructing earthquake-resistant structures, and raising public awareness about safety protocols.

Government agencies are actively assessing the current situation, deploying rescue teams, and urging citizens to stay alert for potential aftershocks. Immediate relief and reconstruction efforts are essential for mitigating long-term impacts.

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Regional and Local Response

So far, no significant casualties or severe damages have been reported. However, authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared to respond if further incidents arise. Residents across affected areas have been advised to prioritize safety and follow official guidelines during this critical period.

Stay tuned for further updates as more information becomes available.