National Disaster Response Force put on alert after two earthquakes struck India

NEW DELHI: The National Disaster Response Force has been put on alert after two earthquakes struck India with epicentres in Nepal and Afghanistan.

"The Home Ministry is collecting details and information about any damage from earthquake in India. NDRF has been placed on alert," Home Minister Rajnath Singh said today.

The Home Minister called up India's Ambassador to Nepal Ranjeet Ray and took stock of the situation in the Himalayan nation.

Home Ministry spokesperson K S Dhatwalia said that two near simultaneous earthquakes struck India with epicentres in Nepal, which was measured 7.1 in Richter scale, and Afghanistan, which was measured 6.9 in Richter scale.

"No loss of life or property is reported so far," he said.

The Home Minister said that he would soon hold a meeting with senior officials and whatever assistance would be required would be provided.

"India is also ready to provide assistance to Nepal," he said.

Tremors shook West Bengal, Delhi and several parts of north India today, less than three weeks after the region was struck by a devastating temblor.

The April 25 earthquake which measured 7.9 on the Richter Scale had claimed over 8,000 lives in Nepal. Nearly 80 people were also killed in India, mostly in Bihar, due to the temblor.