Srinagar, Nov 29: Situated in Seismic Zones IV and V, Jammu and Kashmir has reported around 100 earthquakes over the past three years, underscoring the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity.
The latest earthquake, with a magnitude of 5.8, struck on Thursday, causing widespread panic. The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) reported that the quake occurred at 4:19 p.m with its epicenter along the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border region.
Data from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), reveals around 100 earthquakes hit J&K over the last three years. Most of the recorded tremors in the region had magnitudes ranging from 3 to 5. Experts attribute this frequent seismic activity to the presence of geological faults and the release of underground gases.
In addition to earthquakes, the fragile ecosystem of the Kashmir Himalayas faces recurring natural disasters, including landslides, flash floods, avalanches, and land subsidence.
Fayaz Ahmad, a geologist, emphasized the region’s heightened susceptibility to earthquakes. “Studies suggest the possibility of a high-magnitude earthquake in the Kashmir Himalayas, though predicting its timing remains impossible. Given the fragile ecosystem, it is crucial to implement safeguards to mitigate potential damages,” he said.
He advised against construction on slopes and areas prone to avalanches or flash floods. Ahmad also called for strict enforcement of building codes, retrofitting vulnerable structures, and conducting disaster audits for critical infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, and religious buildings.
An official from the Meteorological Department highlighted that while instruments can detect the magnitude and origin of earthquakes, predicting their occurrence remains beyond the reach of science. “Given J&K’s susceptibility to natural disasters, preparedness is essential to minimize damage,” the official stated.
Thursday’s tremor serves as a stark reminder of the region’s seismic risks, underlining the urgent need for comprehensive disaster management strategies. Experts stress increasing public awareness, strengthening infrastructure, and adopting resilience measures to reduce the impact of future calamities.
