Q. Discuss about the vulnerability of India to earthquake related hazards. Give examples including the salient features of major disasters caused by earthquakes in different parts of India during the last three decades.

Model Answer: 

India is one of the most vulnerable countries in the world to earthquakes due to its location at the boundary of the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate. India experiences frequent seismic activity, with several high magnitude earthquakes recorded in the past, resulting in significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure. In this answer, we will discuss the vulnerability of India to earthquake-related hazards and provide examples of major disasters caused by earthquakes in different parts of India during the last three decades.

Vulnerability of India to earthquake-related hazards:

• Location: India is located at the boundary of the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate, making it prone to seismic activity. The Indian Plate is moving northwards, and the convergence of the Indian and Eurasian Plates causes frequent earthquakes in the region.
• Population density: India has a high population density, and many cities and towns are located in earthquake-prone areas, increasing the risk of loss of life and damage to infrastructure.
• Poor infrastructure: Much of India’s infrastructure is not built to withstand earthquakes, with many buildings constructed without adherence to seismic building codes.
• Lack of preparedness: India’s preparedness for earthquake disasters is lacking, with many people unaware of the risks and unprepared for emergencies.

Examples of major disasters caused by earthquakes in different parts of India during the last three decades:

2001 Gujarat earthquake: This earthquake occurred on January 26, 2001, with a magnitude of 7.7. It caused widespread damage to infrastructure and claimed the lives of over 20,000 people.

Salient features:

• Epicenter: Bhuj, Gujarat
• Magnitude: 7.7
• Death toll: Over 20,000
• Damage to infrastructure: Widespread damage to buildings, roads, and bridges.

1993 Latur earthquake: This earthquake occurred on September 30, 1993, with a magnitude of 6.4. It caused significant damage to infrastructure and claimed the lives of over 9,000 people.

Salient features:

• Epicenter: Killari, Maharashtra
• Magnitude: 6.4
• Death toll: Over 9,000
• Damage to infrastructure: Widespread damage to buildings, roads, and bridges.

2015 Nepal earthquake: This earthquake occurred on April 25, 2015, with a magnitude of 7.8. Although the epicenter was in Nepal, the earthquake was felt in several parts of India and caused significant damage.

Salient features:

• Epicenter: Gorkha district, Nepal
• Magnitude: 7.8
• Death toll: Over 9,000 (including Nepal)
• Damage to infrastructure: Widespread damage to buildings, roads, and bridges in several parts of India.

Conclusion:

India’s vulnerability to earthquake-related hazards is a significant concern, given its location, population density, poor infrastructure, and lack of preparedness.