Structure of the Kashmir Valley now forms deep seismic soundings. Kashmir Valley, has been placed in the highest-risk Zone VI
Hilal Ahmad Bhat
The Valley of Kashmir has witnessed larger magnitude earthquakes in the past These earthquakes were of the magnitude MW 7.6 in 1555, MW 7 in 1669, MW 7.5 in 1779, MW 7.5 in 1885 etc. with devastating effects. And 7.6 MW in Oct. 2005
The Kashmir earthquake of October 8, 2005, was a devastating magnitude 7.6 event centered near LOC , causing immense destruction there in Kashmir (POK) and here in Jammu & Kashmir, killing over 1,300 people in India (especially in Tangdhar, Uri, Poonch) and displacing millions, destroying infrastructure like homes and schools, and highlighting the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity due to active fault lines.
Key Details:
Date & Time: October 8, 2005, at 8:50 AM local time (03:50 UTC).
Magnitude: 7.6 (Mw).
Epicenter: Near LOC, affected areas like Tangdhar, Uri, Poonch, Kupwara, and Baramulla. Over 1,300 deaths, thousands injured, widespread damage to buildings, and significant disruption to daily life, with many people living in makeshift shelters for years.
Aftermath: A massive rescue and relief effort, with long-term recovery focused on rebuilding with more earthquake-resistant structures and supporting affected communities.
Cause of Seismic Change: The change in the seismic zone classification for Kashmir may be due to updated scientific assessments of the ongoing collision between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates and the resulting accumulation of massive underground stress along active fault lines. Kashmir Valley, an intermontane Himalayan basin has always been vulnerable to earthquakes due to the ongoing tectonic activities between Indian and Eurasian plates. Earthquakes have remained a silent crisis in this region and have caused devastating damage in the past. This study focus on understanding the likelihood of earthquake consequences in Kashmir Valley using seismological, geophysical and engineering datasets. As said earlier, The Valley has witnessed larger magnitude earthquakes in the past including MW 7.6 in 1555, MW 7 in 1669, MW 7.5 in 1779, MW 7.5 in 1885 etc. with devastating effects. Total magnetic intensity (TMI) surveys at the strike of typical Balapur fault in Kashmir Valley suggest subsurface magnetic constrains and minima’s which are likely due to the ongoing fault activities. The study highlights the earthquake vulnerability in Kashmir Valley and urgent need for risk based design decisions.
Implications Of The Change : The shift to the highest-risk category reflects a significant update in hazard assessment, not necessarily an immediate change in the underlying geological forces, which have always been active. The primary implication is the urgent need for enhanced preparedness and risk mitigation measures: Kashmir is a high-risk seismic zone, and preparation is crucial to minimize damage and save lives. The entire Jammu and Kashmir region is now designated in the highest earthquake danger category, Zone VI. Preparedness involves actions before, during, and after an earthquake.
“To stay safe during an earthquake, prioritize immediate action by using the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” technique. Effective response relies on being prepared, staying aware of your surroundings, and remaining calm to ensure quick and decisive action during a shake.”
Before an Earthquake| Preparedness At Home
Secure Your Space: Anchor heavy furniture, bookshelves, and appliances to the walls or floor. Move heavy items from upper shelves to lower ones.
Strengthen Your Home: Ensure buildings are constructed or retrofitted to meet earthquake-resistant building codes. Traditional “Dhajji-Diwari” construction, which is flexible and uses wood, is a good model for earthquake resilience.
Create A Plan: Develop a family emergency plan that includes an out-of-area contact person and a designated outdoor meeting point. Practice “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” drills with your family.
Prepare An Emergency Kit: Stock a first-aid kit, a battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, adequate drinking water, and non-perishable food items. Keep necessary medications and a wrench to turn off utilities handy.
Learn Essential Skills: Learn basic first aid and how to switch off the main electric supply and LPG regulator in your home.
During an Earthquake| Drop, Cover, And Hold On : If the ground starts to shake, your immediate actions are critical.
If indoors: Drop down to your hands and knees, Cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk, and Hold On until the shaking stops. Stay clear of windows, fireplaces, and heavy furniture. Do not use elevators or run outside in a panic.
If outdoors: Move to an open area away from buildings, power lines, and trees.
If in a vehicle: Stop in a clear area away from bridges, flyovers, and tunnels, and stay inside the car until the shaking ceases.
After an Earthquake: Safety and Recovery
Expect Aftershocks: Be prepared for subsequent tremors and continue to follow safety precautions.
Check For Injuries , Damage: Provide first aid if trained. Inspect water, gas, and electrical lines for damage. If you smell gas, open windows, leave the building immediately, and report it to authorities. Do not use electrical switches or open flames if a gas leak is suspected.
Stay Informed: Turn on your radio for information and instructions from authorities like the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Use text messages instead of phone calls to keep lines open for emergency responders.
Stay Safe: Wear sturdy shoes to protect your feet from debris and broken glass. Stay out of damaged buildings until they have been inspected by a professional.
For short, stay-safe earthquake messages: focus on action like “Drop, Cover, Hold On!”, emphasize preparation with “Be Prepared, Be Aware,” or offer simple reassurance like “Stay Calm, Stay Safe,” reminding people that preparedness and quick action (Drop, Cover, Hold) are key during a shake.
General Safety/Inspirational:
Stay safe. Stay informed.
In times of crisis, be prepared.
Stay safe during an earthquake. Be ready.
(The author is a teacher at Govt High School Brakpora, Anantnag. The views, opinions and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the author and aren’t necessarily in accord with the views of “Kashmir Horizon”)
