Bhawanipatna: Panic gripped residents of Kalahandi district after a mild earthquake, reportedly measuring 4.1 on the Richter scale, struck the region on Tuesday evening.

According to initial reports, the tremor was felt for four seconds at around 7:42 p.m., prompting people to rush out of their homes in fear. Though no immediate reports of damage or casualties have emerged, the sudden jolt caused widespread concern among locals.

The earthquake had a depth of approximately 24 km, officials said. Tremors were felt across all parts of Kalahandi district, including Bhawanipatna, Junagarh, Kesinga, Dharamgarh, Jaipatna, Narla and M. Rampur.

The impact was also reported in neighbouring districts, indicating the tremor was felt over a wider area.

In total, residents in 13 blocks and four urban local bodies in Kalahandi district experienced the quake.

Officials said authorities are monitoring the situation.