Is India Among the Countries Most Affected by Earthquakes?
A recent 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck near the Nepal border, affecting northern India, particularly Bihar. From 1990 to early 2024, India recorded 58 significant earthquakes, making it the seventh most affected country. The seismic risks for India stem from its geographical location amid tectonic plate boundaries, with over half of its land area at risk of substantial earthquakes, especially in the Himalayan region.
On January 7, 2025, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.1 in magnitude struck southern Tibet, near the Nepal border, affecting large portions of northern India, including Bihar. This seismic event, occurring at 6:35 am, was the strongest since a devastating earthquake in Nepal in April 2015, which resulted in significant casualties. Asia experiences frequent seismic activity, with China and Indonesia among the most earthquake-prone nations. Between 1990 and early 2024, China recorded 186 major earthquakes, followed closely by Indonesia with 166, while India ranked seventh globally with 58 significant quakes. Geographically, India is susceptible to earthquakes due to its position at the convergence of tectonic plates, with over half of its land area at risk of experiencing severe seismic events. Notably, the Himalayan region remains particularly prone to powerful earthquakes, having experienced several major quakes in the last century.
The topic of earthquakes, particularly in relation to India, highlights the geological vulnerabilities faced by countries located at the intersection of tectonic plates. With a notable history of seismic activity, many Asian nations, including India, have suffered from catastrophic earthquakes. The statistical analysis of major earthquakes between 1990 and early 2024 illustrates the patterns and frequency of such occurrences in various countries, underscoring the geological and infrastructural challenges faced by nations like India. Understanding the seismic risk in India is crucial, given that significant portions of its territory are vulnerable to serious seismic activity.
India is ranked as the seventh most earthquake-prone country globally, having experienced 58 significant earthquakes from 1990 to early 2024. The country’s geographical position, along with its ill-regulated construction practices and rapidly growing population, increases its vulnerability to devastating earthquakes. Notably, a recent quake measuring 7.1 in magnitude underscored the ongoing seismic risks in the region, particularly in the Himalayan area, where the potential for high-magnitude events remains substantial. With a significant portion of its land area at risk of severe seismic activity, understanding these risks is essential for preparedness and mitigation measures.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
