PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Nainital
Earthquake engineer Bhavesh Pandey highlighted Uttarakhand’s high seismic vulnerability, urging timely preparations to mitigate tremor-related risks. Expressing concern over the structural integrity of existing buildings in Nainital, he emphasized the critical need for safety audits of older structures and strict adherence to modern construction standards for new builds.
According to him, areas like Kapkot, Bageshwar, Dharchula, Chamoli, and Uttarkashi are seismically sensitive. “Uttarakhand’s seismic history also indicates the need to take the potential for major earthquakes seriously. Therefore, it is crucial to take precautionary measures in advance rather than waiting for a major disaster to strike,” he stated.
Explaining things, he said that the constant movement of tectonic plates in the Himalayan region causes stress to build up inside the earth. “When the energy, stored in rocks, is suddenly released, tremors are felt,” he said and added warningly that the occurrence of minor earthquakes does not mean elimination of a major earthquake in the future.
Dwelling on the difference in earthquake intensity, he said that the energy difference between an earthquake of magnitude six and seven on the Richter scale is quite significant. “Therefore, we must sit up and pay adequate attention to earthquake-resistant construction, safe buildings and arrangements for quick response during a disaster,” he advised.
Referring to the geological activity in the Nainital and Haldwani areas, Pandey said that the potential earthquake threat in this region needs to be taken seriously. “In the event of a strong earthquake, buildings, not built to earthquake-resistant standards, could suffer significant damage. Therefore, it is essential to go for a safety audit of existing buildings in Nainital. As far as new constructions are concerned, it must be ensured that they comply with prescribed earthquake-resistant standards. Furthermore, the administration and departments concerned should work towards strengthening disaster management preparedness to minimise damage in emergency situations,” he said.
Referring to the earthquake early warning system in Uttarakhand, he said that the Bhudev app could help provide a few seconds of warning before an earthquake strikes. “However, this warning is limited in duration. It cannot prevent an earthquake, nor can it predict the exact time and location of an earthquake. While it is impossible to prevent a natural disaster like an earthquake, better preparedness and public awareness can significantly reduce the loss of life and property,” he stated.
