India ranks as the seventh most earthquake-prone country globally, having experienced 58 significant earthquakes between 1990 and January 2024. The 7.1 magnitude earthquake that struck near the Nepal border on January 7, 2025, exemplifies the seismic challenges faced by the region. Major earthquakes are frequent in Asia, with China, Indonesia, and Japan having the highest occurrences. Seismic vulnerabilities are especially pronounced in the Himalayan region, necessitating effective preparedness strategies.
On January 7, 2025, southern Tibet experienced a powerful earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale, with its epicenter located near the Nepal border. This tremor was strongly felt across northern India, particularly in Bihar, marking the most significant seismic event in the region since the devastating 2015 Nepal earthquake, which resulted in nearly 10,000 deaths. Southeast Asia, particularly countries like China, Indonesia, and Japan, remains highly susceptible to seismic activity, with Indonesia noted as the most earthquake-prone nation, having registered over 2,200 events of magnitude 4 or greater according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
In assessing major earthquakes from 1990 to early 2024, China emerged as the country most impacted, experiencing 186 significant earthquakes that led to considerable damage and loss of life. Indonesia followed with 166 such events, while Japan recorded 98. India ranks as the seventh most earthquake-prone country globally, having endured 58 significant earthquakes, primarily due to its geological position at the convergence of multiple tectonic plates and unregulated construction practices. This vulnerability is particularly pronounced in the Himalayan region, which has a history of severe seismic events, including four major earthquakes within the past 50 years that exceeded magnitudes of 8.
India’s potential for experiencing moderate to severe seismic events is stark, as roughly 59 percent of its land area is at risk for tremors measuring intensity VII or higher on the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale (MSK). The country’s strategic measures in response to this risk are crucial for mitigating future disasters as it navigates its developing infrastructure and urbanization challenges.
In conclusion, India stands among countries historically affected by major earthquakes due to its geographic and structural vulnerabilities. As evidenced by its frequency of significant seismic events, understanding earthquake preparedness is essential for the safety of its inhabitants.
The context of earthquakes in Asia reveals a heightened risk especially in countries like China, Indonesia, and Japan, which are situated along active tectonic boundaries. The analysis of earthquake occurrences highlights the devastating impacts these geological events have had, with a historical account showing that China is the most affected by severe seismic activity in the late 20th to early 21st century. India, placed at the intersection of multiple tectonic forces, has also seen significant earthquakes, thereby emphasizing the importance of effective disaster management and preparedness measures.
In summary, India is indeed among the countries affected by major earthquakes, ranking seventh in the world based on significant seismic events experienced from 1990 to early 2024. The geological vulnerabilities inherent in the region, especially in the Himalayan area, underscore the importance of ongoing preparedness and construction regulations to mitigate the risks of future earthquakes.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
