Earthquake dangers in Türkiye Syria and Himalayas

Source: The post Earthquake dangers in Türkiye Syria and Himalayas has been created, based on the article “Quakes may well sharpen India’s seismic readiness” published in “The Hindu” on 19th February 2025.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper1-Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes and GS paper3-Disaster and disaster management.

Context: The article discusses the danger of earthquakes in Türkiye, Syria, and the Himalayan region. It warns about potential disasters in India due to tectonic activity. It calls for urgent government action, better infrastructure planning, and disaster preparedness to reduce damage and save lives.

For detailed information on Earthquakes in Himalayas Threaten Lives and Infrastructure read this article here

Why Are Earthquakes Dangerous?

1. High Death Toll: The February 6, 2023 earthquake in Türkiye and Syria had a magnitude of 7.8 and resulted in at least 17,000 deaths.
2. Destruction of Infrastructure: A second quake occurred nine hours later, causing further destruction to buildings and infrastructure.
3. Geological Instability: Earthquakes are caused by movements along fault lines between tectonic plates, which can remain dormant for years before suddenly shifting.
4. Widespread Impact: The January 7, 2025, earthquake in Tibet, with a magnitude of 7.1, affected regions across national borders, impacting Nepal and Northern India and causing up to 400 deaths.

Where Do Earthquakes Come From?

1. Earthquakes happen due to movements along fault lines between tectonic plates.
2. The Earth’s crust sits on 15 major tectonic plates that are tightly locked.
3. These plates can stay still for decades or centuries but suddenly move, causing earthquakes.
4. The Indian Plate is pushing against the Eurasian Plate, creating pressure under the Himalayas.
5. Fault lines are unpredictable and cause mass destruction when they shift.

Is India at Risk of a Major Earthquake?

1. Tectonic Pressure Build-Up: The Indian Plate is pushing against the Eurasian Plate. Scientists warn that built-up pressure may cause a massive earthquake.
2. Recent Earthquakes: A 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit Tibet on January 7, 2025, killing up to 400 people and affecting Nepal and North India.
3. Past Disasters: The 7.8 magnitude Türkiye-Syria earthquake on February 6, 2023, killed at least 17,000 people.
4. Delhi and Bihar Tremors: On February 17, 2025, strong tremors were felt in Delhi and Bihar.
5. Infrastructure Risks: Weak buildings, dams, and roads in seismic zones increase danger.
6. Urgent Action Needed: Scientists and media warn of risks. India must prepare before disaster strikes.

What Should Be Done?

1. Stop Harmful Construction – Engineering projects that weaken rocky terrain in seismic risk zones (II, III, IV)should be rolled back.
2. Strengthen Infrastructure – Existing seismic zonation maps must be updated to assess and reinforce high-risk structures like hydropower projects and atomic reactors (e.g., Narora in Zone IV).
3. Earthquake Insurance – A seismic building insurance scheme should be introduced to encourage protection against structural collapse.
4. Improve Disaster Response – Costs for rescue, shelter, and rehabilitation should be assessed and planned zone-wise.
5. Use Advanced Technology – Collaboration with global experts on earthquake anticipation sensors and architecture solutions should be fast-tracked.

Conclusion

Earthquakes cannot be stopped or predicted accurately, but their damage can be reduced. India must act now to prevent a future disaster. The government, scientists, and citizens must work together for safety and preparedness.

Question for practice:

Examine the risks and preparedness measures for major earthquakes in India based on tectonic activity and past disasters.