Multiple mild tremors were felt in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday, following an earthquake of 2.5 magnitude that hit the state. According to locals, at least four jolts were felt between midnight and 4:00 am. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the earthquake occurred at 12:45 pm with its epicentre in the forest of Siror under Tehsil Bhatwadi. So far, no damage has been reported from anywhere.
This incident comes just two days after a mild 2.4 magnitude earthquake hit Uttarakhand’s Pauri Garhwal district on Thursday around 10:31 am, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS) website. The frequent occurrence of these earthquakes in the region has caused panic among the locals.
The Indian tectonic plate is known to move approximately 5 cm every year, leading to the accumulation of stress along the Himalayas. This build-up of stress increases the possibility of major seismic events like earthquakes in the coming days. Recently, a leading weather scientist and geological expert warned that the movement of the Indian tectonic plate can trigger a major earthquake measuring up to 8.5 on the Richter scale.
Uttarakhand, which falls under seismic zone IV, is prone to earthquakes. The state witnessed a devastating earthquake in 1991, which claimed more than 700 lives and caused extensive damage to infrastructure. Since then, several mild earthquakes have been reported in the region, and experts have warned of the possibility of a major earthquake in the near future.
As a precautionary measure, experts have suggested that people living in seismic-prone areas should stay prepared for any eventuality. They have advised people to take steps like making emergency kits, storing non-perishable food items, and planning for evacuation in case of a major earthquake.
Moreover, the government has been advised to take proactive measures to ensure the safety of people living in the region. Experts have suggested that the government should undertake a comprehensive study of the area to understand the risk of earthquakes and take appropriate measures to mitigate the damage. The government should also ensure that buildings in the region are constructed as per the earthquake-resistant guidelines to minimize the loss of life and property in case of a major earthquake.