On February 18, 2025, Delhi experienced a mild earthquake, drawing attention to the city's susceptibility to seismic activity. This was followed by tremors reported in Bihar, Odisha, and as far as Sikkim, all associated with the recent 4.0 magnitude quake. The event has reignited discussions on the looming threat of a Great Himalayan Earthquake.
Delhi's Earthquake Risk
Delhi is situated in Seismic Zone 4, a region known for its high earthquake risk. Its geographical location near the junction of the Indo-Australian and Eurasian tectonic plates places it at greater risk for seismic events. The recent quake, though not severe, was particularly felt because of its shallow depth.
Key Factors Increasing Seismicity
Delhi's vulnerability is heightened by several geological features. The city lies close to the Himalayan Belt, a region prone to tectonic movements, which can trigger earthquakes. The Delhi-Haridwar Ridge and the Aravalli Fault System are key contributors to this risk, as movements within these structures can generate tremors.
Historical Earthquake Activity
Delhi has faced numerous earthquakes since 1720, with at least five having a magnitude exceeding 5.5. Fault lines like the Delhi-Moradabad fault and the Yamuna River lineament add to the complexity of the region’s seismic activity, underscoring the ongoing risk to the area.
Potential For A Major Himalayan Earthquake
There have long been concerns about a major earthquake in the Himalayan region, with scientists predicting that a quake of magnitude 8.0 or higher could strike. Historically, the Himalayas have experienced significant earthquakes every few hundred years. Over the past 2,000 years, several quakes of magnitude 8.7 have been recorded. However, in the last 70 years, no earthquake surpassing 8.0 magnitude has been observed.
The 2015 Nepal earthquake, which had a magnitude of 7.8, killed more than 9,000 people and caused extensive damage to Kathmandu, underscoring the destructive potential of such seismic events.
Threat Of A Future Himalayan Earthquake
A major earthquake in the Himalayan region poses a significant threat to northern India. Urban infrastructure in major cities is at high risk of damage from intense shaking. Over 300 million people live in the potential impact zone, making the event particularly dangerous for millions of residents in the region.
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