On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, an earthquake of 5.1 magnitude struck the Bay of Bengal, causing tremors in Kolkata and several other regions of West Bengal. The earthquake, which occurred at 6:10 a.m. local time, prompted widespread concern among residents as the tremors were felt across the city. According to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), the epicenter of the earthquake was located in the Bay of Bengal, approximately 175 kilometers from Odisha’s Puri.
The earthquake’s depth was recorded at 91 kilometers, with its coordinates listed as latitude 19.52 N and longitude 88.55 E. As the tremors shook Kolkata, many residents shared their experiences on social media, discussing the sudden jolts they felt in the early morning hours. While the tremors caused momentary panic, no immediate reports of injuries or damage were received.
The India Meteorological Department confirmed that the earthquake’s epicenter was near the Odisha coast, adding that the tremors were felt most strongly in Kolkata and surrounding districts in West Bengal. Despite initial fears, officials noted that the city’s infrastructure seemed unaffected, and no significant damage or casualties were reported. However, the incident highlighted the vulnerability of Kolkata to seismic events, despite its location in Seismic Zone III, a region with moderate earthquake risk.
Kolkata, while not as prone to large earthquakes as some other parts of India such as Northeast India, the Himalayas, or Gujarat, does experience occasional tremors due to seismic activity in the surrounding regions. The city’s position near the Bay of Bengal, as well as its proximity to fault lines in neighboring regions, makes it susceptible to earthquake tremors, although they are typically of moderate magnitude.
Kolkata’s location within Seismic Zone III means that the risk of major quakes is relatively low compared to higher-risk zones. However, this does not negate the fact that the city, along with other areas in West Bengal, can experience seismic activity from time to time. The tremors felt on February 25 were not unusual in this context, as smaller earthquakes are periodically recorded in the Bay of Bengal and surrounding areas.
Following the 5.1 magnitude earthquake, many residents took to social media to share their experiences and reactions. Posts on platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter) revealed widespread discussions about the earthquake.
One user mentioned receiving an earthquake alert around 6:10 a.m., urging others to stay vigilant and safe. Hashtags related to the earthquake briefly trended as users exchanged information and checked on the safety of others. Another user, who was awake at the time, shared their experience, noting they had felt a 5.3 magnitude tremor, even though the official report listed the quake’s magnitude as 5.1.
These social media reactions illustrate the growing reliance on online platforms to disseminate real-time information during natural events, especially in regions where residents may be unprepared for such occurrences.
Kolkata’s inclusion in Seismic Zone III highlights the fact that while earthquakes are possible, the city is less likely to experience large, destructive quakes compared to regions in higher-risk zones like Seismic Zone V. Seismic zones are categorized based on the potential risk of earthquake damage.
Zone III, in which Kolkata falls, is considered a moderate-risk area, meaning that while the likelihood of a significant earthquake is lower, smaller tremors may occur with some regularity. Seismic Zone V, which includes parts of the Himalayas and other areas of high seismic activity, is more prone to major earthquakes. In contrast, the low-risk Seismic Zone I and II areas, such as parts of the northern plains, rarely experience significant seismic events. Understanding these zones is critical for disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts.
While Kolkata’s experience with earthquakes is generally limited to smaller tremors, other parts of India, especially in the northeast and Himalayan regions, are more prone to significant seismic activity. In recent years, there has been growing concern about the impact of earthquakes on urban infrastructure, particularly in rapidly developing cities.
In these regions, earthquakes can cause widespread destruction, making it essential to prioritize earthquake-resistant construction and preparedness. In addition to the Bay of Bengal region, other fault zones in India, such as the Himalayan and Indo-Burmese ranges, are also known for their earthquake activity. This broader context underscores the importance of constant monitoring and preparedness across the entire country, not just in traditionally high-risk zones.
The National Center for Seismology (NCS) and the India Meteorological Department play crucial roles in monitoring and reporting on earthquake activity across India. By providing real-time data on the magnitude, location, and depth of earthquakes, these agencies help ensure public safety and enable quicker responses in the event of larger seismic events. The NCS, which recorded the February 25 earthquake’s specifics, continues to be an essential resource for information on seismic activity in India.
In addition to governmental agencies, technology companies and earthquake alert systems have become increasingly vital in providing early warnings and real-time updates to residents. Many individuals in Kolkata reported receiving Google Earthquake Alerts prior to the tremors, a feature that has been instrumental in informing people about seismic activity and promoting safety precautions.
While the earthquake in Kolkata on February 25, 2025, was significant, it was not unexpected given the city’s location in a moderate seismic zone. The absence of major damage or casualties is reassuring, but the event serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for earthquake preparedness in urban areas, particularly in cities like Kolkata that are vulnerable to tremors originating from surrounding regions. Understanding seismic activity, monitoring real-time data, and investing in infrastructure that can withstand earthquakes are crucial steps for minimizing the impact of future events.
