As many as 32 earthquakes of varying intensity hit J&K and Ladakh this year. Both UTs recorded 16 earthquakes each, with magnitudes ranging from 3.2 to 5.4 on the Richter scale, according to the National Centre of Seismology. The experts have said that recurring earthquakes were beneficial as they help release the extra pressure that accumulates on the tectonic plates, yet there is need to be vigilant and ensure measures which would help prevent colossal losses, both in terms of life and property.
India has been divided into four zones viz. zone V, IV, III and II according to the seismic zoning map of India prepared by Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) based on historical seismicity and strong ground motions.
Out of these zones, Zone V exhibits the highest seismic risk and zone II has the least.
All districts of Kashmir valley and Doda district fall in Seismic Zone-V, and the rest of the districts fall in Seismic Zone-IV.
The time of occurrence of a big earthquake cannot be predicted accurately with existing technology even as the government of India recently revealed in parliament that it plans to strengthen the existing National Seismological Network.
There is always an urgent need of finding new, smarter, and more effective ways of managing disasters. There is thus a need to lay a greater focus on building capacity to assess and reduce the risks of a disaster, than just deploying resources on post-disaster relief and rehabilitation.
The Union government informed parliament earlier this year that the scientists have indicated that strain accumulation for the earthquake occurrence is currently going on along the Main Himalayan Thrust, “where great earthquakes are expected to occur”.
In view of the statement, there is need for regular awareness campaigns to sensitize people on prevention and preparedness for building safety from earthquakes.
The concerned authorities need to follow guidelines by the Bureau of Indian Standards, Building Materials and Technology Promotion Council (BMTPC) and Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO) etc. for design and construction of earthquake risk resistant structures to minimize the loss of life and damage to property caused by earthquakes. While these guidelines are in wide circulation amongst the administrative authorities responsible for the design and construction of earthquake resistant structures in earthquake prone areas, there is need to ensure adherence and the government should take periodic reviews.
There should be systematic resort to “disaster drills” to educate the public on what to do during an earthquake because preparedness is the key to managing such disasters.
