A series of earthquakes in Pakistan over the past few days has triggered speculation online about possible nuclear tests or military activities. The latest tremor, a 4.6 magnitude earthquake, hit Punjab province on Monday afternoon, raising more questions amid rising India-Pakistan tensions.
The National Center for Seismology (NCS) confirmed the quake took place at 1:26 PM IST near Pir Jongal, close to a known fault line. This follows two earlier quakes on May 10—one measuring 4.7 in the morning and another at 4.0 magnitude later in the day.
Three Earthquakes in Three Days Raises Eyebrows
The back-to-back quakes have led to rumors across social media about possible nuclear activity or military strikes behind the tremors. Areas around Kota and Sukkur—also affected—are close to Pakistan’s past nuclear test zones and have seen military action in the past.
Some reports even linked the shaking to missile impacts, citing recent cross-border tensions and explosions reportedly heard near the Pakistan Army Headquarters.
Experts Dismiss Nuclear Test Theories
Speaking to the media, NCS Director O.P. Mishra ruled out any unnatural cause.
“Nuclear explosions look different on seismographs. Natural earthquakes show two wave patterns, while nuclear tests show a third phase due to surface shockwaves. We didn’t detect that here,” he said.
Veteran seismologist A.K. Shukla also confirmed that if there had been a nuclear test, it would have shown up clearly on scientific equipment.
Military Movements Add to Suspicion
Tensions have been high, and military activity on both sides of the border has raised concerns. A top-level security meeting was held in New Delhi involving Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, NSA Ajit Doval, and top military and intelligence officers. No public statement has been made linking the quakes to any defense action.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Seismology Department confirmed the tremors and their epicenters but gave no indication of nuclear or military involvement.
While experts are clear that the earthquakes are natural, the timing and location have led many to question if there’s more to the story. With military activity and past test sites nearby, people are asking if there’s a hidden reason behind the quakes.