On January 7, 2025, a 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck near the Nepal border, significantly affecting northern India, including Bihar. India ranks as the seventh most earthquake-prone country globally, with 58 significant earthquakes recorded from 1990 to January 2024. The country’s susceptibility to seismic activity is largely due to its geographical position among multiple tectonic plates and the risks associated with the Himalayan region.
On January 7, 2025, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.1 struck near the Nepal border in southern Tibet, significantly impacting northern India, including Bihar. This tremor stands as the most powerful quake in the region since the devastating April 2015 earthquake in Nepal, which caused around 10,000 casualties. India ranks as the seventh most earthquake-prone country globally, with 58 major earthquakes recorded between 1990 and January 2024, attributed to its location at the intersection of multiple tectonic plates and its complex geological framework. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration noted that while China leads with 186 major earthquakes in the same timeframe, Indonesia follows closely with 166. In comparison to China and Indonesia, India’s seismic activity presents considerable concern, with approximately 59 percent of its land at risk of moderate to severe seismic events. The article emphasizes that the Himalayan region remains particularly vulnerable to earthquakes of considerable magnitude, recalling historical significant quakes over the past century.
Understanding the geological dynamics of India necessitates an awareness of its position among several tectonic plates, leading to heightened vulnerability to seismic events. The country has a notable history of significant earthquakes, notably within the Himalayan region, where the potential for destructive quakes persists. The data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration provides insights into the frequency and impact of earthquakes across various nations, spotlighting the varying levels of seismic activity across Asia. This information underscores the pressing need for infrastructure preparedness in earthquake-prone areas of India, considering a large portion of its population resides in vulnerable regions.
In summary, India is indeed one of the countries severely affected by significant earthquakes. As the seventh most earthquake-prone nation, it experiences numerous seismic events attributable to its unique geological conditions. The recent 7.1 magnitude earthquake serves as a reminder of this reality, underscoring the necessity for rigorous disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience. As seismic activity remains a pressing concern, continued vigilance and proactive measures are essential to safeguard lives and property.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
