Telangana’s Strongest Earthquake in 50 Years: 5.3 Magnitude Quake Jolts Mulugu District
Telangana experienced its strongest earthquake in five decades early Wednesday morning when a 5.3 magnitude tremor shook Mulugu district. The epicenter was near Medaram, a tribal town renowned for the Samakka-Sarakka shrine, located within the Godavari rift zone, categorized as ‘Zone 3’ for seismic activity.
Widespread Impact Felt Across Telangana and Beyond
The earthquake struck at 7:27 AM, with tremors lasting up to 10 seconds. According to the National Centre for Seismology, the quake occurred at a depth of 40 kilometers. Ripples were felt across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra, causing panic as residents rushed outdoors.
In Telangana, tremors were reported in Hyderabad’s suburbs such as Gachibowli, Kukatpally, Hayathnagar, and Vanasthalipuram, and districts like Warangal, Khammam, and Karimnagar. Neighboring Andhra Pradesh cities, including Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, and Eluru, also experienced the earthquake.
Minimal Damage Reported
While there were no major damages, isolated incidents like the collapse of a house in Shankarajupalle village of Eturnagaram mandal and cracks in walls in Khammam district were reported. Mulugu district SP P. Shabarish confirmed there was no significant damage, and authorities are monitoring the situation.
Historical Context and Geological Insights
This earthquake is the strongest recorded in Telangana since a 5.7 magnitude quake struck Bhadrachalam in 1969, according to CSIR-NGRI chief seismologist Prakash Kumar. The Godavari rift zone, spanning parts of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra, is a geologically active area prone to moderate earthquakes.
Seismologists explained that while the quake posed no threat to well-constructed buildings, loosely built structures in the affected areas could be vulnerable. The Bhookamp app recorded the earthquake’s depth at 40 kilometers, underscoring the tectonic activity within the Godavari rift zone, which covers 25,000 square kilometers.
Recent Environmental Concerns
Mulugu district forest officer Rahul Jadhav noted that the epicenter was 7 km from an area in Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary where thousands of trees had fallen during heavy rains in August.
Key Highlights:
- Magnitude: 5.3
- Epicenter: Medaram, Mulugu district
- Duration: 10 seconds
- Impact Radius: 250 km, spanning Telangana, AP, and Maharashtra
- Historical Significance: Strongest quake since 1969
This seismic event highlights the need for preparedness in earthquake-prone regions like Telangana. Authorities continue to monitor the area for aftershocks, ensuring the safety of residents.
