India’s Earthquake Risk: Concerns Following Regional Disasters

A series of recent earthquakes in Pakistan and Tibet, along with a significant quake in Myanmar, prompts alarm regarding potential seismic threats to India. Experts suggest a high likelihood of a major earthquake, particularly impacting densely populated cities. With inadequate preparedness and a high percentage of risk across various states, India may suffer considerable damage in the event of an earthquake.

Recent earthquakes have struck Pakistan and Tibet, terms commonly linked to natural disasters, raising concerns about seismic activity in India. A significant earthquake in Myanmar, registering a 7.2 magnitude, resulted in over 2,700 fatalities, amplifying worries in neighboring countries. Experts warn that India, particularly populous areas like Delhi and Guwahati, faces a higher risk from a potential major earthquake than those experienced in Myanmar.

According to a report by India Today, there is a strong possibility of a catastrophic “Great Himalayan Earthquake” exceeding a magnitude of 8. The convergence of the Indian plate beneath the Sunda and Burma plates in northeast India heightens the risk of severe earthquakes and tsunamis. Additionally, Central and Peninsular India may experience rare and dangerous intraplate earthquakes, but the country remains inadequately prepared for such events.

Approximately 59% of India is susceptible to earthquakes, with Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, and northeastern states being particularly vulnerable. Major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata are situated in dangerous seismic zones. A significant concern is the lack of adequate earthquake-resistant structures, which could lead to catastrophic building collapses during seismic events, potentially resulting in higher casualties than the quake itself.

Over the past two decades, India has incurred losses of roughly $79.5 billion due to climate-related disasters. Notable events include the 2001 Bhuj earthquake in Gujarat, impacting the economy by nearly $10 billion, and the 2015 Nepal earthquake, which inflicted approximately $7 billion in damage in northern India. The Himalayan region has a historical precedent for strong earthquakes, having experienced four significant quakes with magnitudes over 8.0 in the last half-century, including earthquakes in Shillong (1987), Kangra (1905), Bihar-Nepal (1934), and Assam-Tibet (1950).

India is at a significant risk of severe earthquakes, particularly following recent seismic events in neighboring countries, emphasizing the urgent need for preparedness. The possibility of a catastrophic earthquake, especially in heavily populated urban areas, underlines the importance of constructing resilient infrastructure to mitigate potential devastation. Historical data highlights a pattern of strong earthquakes within the Himalayan region, further necessitating readiness against such natural disasters.

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