Massive 6.6 magnitude-quake jolts Pakistan

Karachi [Pakistan], Feb. 8: A strong 6.6 magnitude-earthquake hit the Baluchistan`s districts of Pasni, Turbat, Gwadar and adjoining areas on early Wednesday morning, informed US Geological Survey.

According to Geo News, the epicenter of tremor was around 90 km (55 miles) south of Turbat, Pakistan. "The epicenter of the tremor was around 90 km (55 miles) south of the town of Turbat, just off the coast at a depth of 10 km (6 miles) below the seabed," said the USGS, which initially estimated the magnitude to be 6.6.

There were no immediate reports of damage or fatalities from the quake, which was centred between the Chinese-operated port of Gwadar and the city of Pasni, in Baluchistan province.

The quake was so strong that it was felt in neighbouring Iran as well. "The shallow quake struck at 3:03 am, with an epicentre just 23 kilometres (14 miles) southwest of Pakistan's coastal city of Pasni," the USGS added.

There are no immediate reports of casualties or damages. The local administration has issued a high alert for districts at Makran belt. With an estimated population of 400,000 people, Pasni is located on the Makran coast on the Arabian Sea about 450 km from Karachi.

Source: ANI