India ranks as the seventh most earthquake-prone country globally, experiencing 58 major earthquakes from 1990 to 2024. A recent 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck near Tibet, felt across northern India, recalling the severity of past seismic events. The country’s geological position and inadequate construction practices heighten its vulnerability to seismic activity.
On January 7, 2025, a significant earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale struck southern Tibet, near the Nepal border, with its tremors felt across northern India, particularly in Bihar. This earthquake was the most potent seismic event in the region since the devastating 2015 earthquake in Nepal, which resulted in roughly 10,000 fatalities. Notably, India is ranked as the seventh most earthquake-prone country globally, having experienced 58 major earthquakes from 1990 to 2024, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The Indian subcontinent, due to its geographical positioning at the intersection of multiple tectonic plates, faces a high risk of seismic activity, with significant vulnerabilities stemming from inadequate building regulations and an increasing population.
In terms of past seismic events, Indonesia leads globally, having experienced the highest number of earthquakes, while China ranks first for the most major destructive earthquakes since 1990, suffering from 186 earthquakes that met specific damage and casualty criteria. This positions India within a significant seismic context, highlighting the need for improved preparedness and resilience strategies against future earthquake risks. Overall, India is confronted with natural challenges that necessitate urgent attention to mitigate their impact on both life and infrastructure.
The article discusses the seismic activity in Asia and specifically focuses on India’s vulnerability to earthquakes. It provides a comprehensive analysis of major earthquakes from 1990 to 2024, highlighting the countries most affected by seismic events. The key factors contributing to India’s ranking and its historical earthquakes are examined while emphasizing the geographical and geological causes of India’s susceptibility to earthquakes.
In conclusion, India remains one of the most earthquake-prone countries globally, ranking seventh in terms of major seismic events from 1990 to 2024. The recent earthquake near Tibet reiterates the ongoing threat posed by seismic activity. With a significant portion of its territory at risk of moderate to severe seismic events, India must prioritize its efforts in disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience to mitigate the potential impact of future earthquakes.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
