Explosion-like sound, tremors trigger panic in Hyderabad colonies

A loud explosion-like sound followed by brief ground tremors triggered panic in several residential colonies on the south-western outskirts of Hyderabad on Tuesday morning, prompting residents to rush out of their homes.

The incident was reported around 10.25 am from Rajendranagar, Upparpally, Attapur, Erraboda, Keshavswamy Nagar and Langar Houz, among other areas.

Residents said the ground shook for around five to 10 seconds, rattling windows and causing household utensils to shift. Fearing a possible earthquake, many people rushed into the streets.

Scientists at the city-based National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) sought to dispel rumours of a major tectonic earthquake, attributing the phenomenon to what was described as “hydro seismicity”.

According to the explanation cited in reports, rainwater percolating into underground rock formations can build pressure within microscopic pores and fractures in granite. Sudden movement of trapped water and air, or minor ruptures in subsurface rock, may release energy, producing a booming sound and ground vibrations.

Hyderabad lies on a stable granite formation, making a major destructive earthquake less likely, the report said. However, further scientific assessment would be required to establish the precise cause of Tuesday's incident.

Municipal and disaster management officials urged residents to remain calm. Preliminary assessments indicated no loss of life or significant structural damage to buildings.

The city and its surrounding areas have experienced similar episodes of brief tremors and underground noises in the past. Comparable incidents reportedly caused panic in Sulemannagar and Chintalmet in October 2020 and February 2026.

A shallow micro-earthquake measuring 1.8 on the Richter scale was also recorded near Budvel in January 2015.