7 Biggest Reasons Delhi-NCR Earthquakes Occur in Details

An earthquake-sized, medium power seismic tremor shocked Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday; thus far, no report of any loss or harm to property has been received from any place. The information delivered by the Public Community for Seismology (NCS) said a tremor estimating 5.4 on the Richter scale happened in the UT at 1.33 p.m. “The focal point of the seismic tremor was in the Doda area of Jammu division. It happened 30 km inside the world’s outside. “Its directions are scope 33.12 degrees north and longitude 75.98 degrees east,” authorities said here. Kashmir is situated in a profoundly delicate seismological district that is inclined to tremors. Seismic tremors have created destruction here previously.

A quake measuring 5.4 on the Richter scale shocked Delhi-NCR and adjoining regions on Tuesday.

As indicated by authorities, the tremor struck at 1.33 p.m. What’s more, it began close to the far-off town of Gandoh Bhalessa in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda region.

“Quake of Magnitude:5.4, Happened on 13-06-2023, 13:33:42 IST, Lat: 33.15 and Long: 75.82, Profundity: 6 km, Area: Doda, Jammu and Kashmir, India,” the Public Community for Seismology said in a tweet.

1. Tectonic Plate Movement

One of the primary reasons for earthquakes in Delhi-NCR is the movement of tectonic plates. The Indian subcontinent sits atop the Eurasian plate, and the interaction between these two plates results in immense pressure buildup over time. When this pressure is released, it leads to seismic activity, causing earthquakes.

2. Fault Lines and Geological Structures

Delhi-NCR is located in a seismically active zone, with several fault lines and geological structures underlying the region. The presence of faults, such as the Delhi-Haridwar ridge, Sohna fault, and Moradabad fault, increases the likelihood of earthquakes. Stress accumulation along these fault lines eventually triggers seismic events.

3. Subsurface Stress Accumulation

Over time, stress accumulates beneath the Earth’s surface due to the movement of tectonic plates. Delhi-NCR is situated in a region where stress accumulation is significant. When the stress exceeds the strength of the rocks, it results in the sudden release of energy, causing earthquakes.

4. Human-Induced Activities

While natural factors play a significant role in earthquake occurrence, human-induced activities can also contribute to seismic events. Activities such as mining, the construction of large infrastructure projects, and groundwater extraction can alter the stress distribution in the Earth’s crust. These changes can potentially trigger earthquakes in the Delhi-NCR region.

5. Delhi-NCR sits on a vast alluvial plain

Characterized by loose and water-saturated sediments. During an earthquake, the intense shaking can cause these loose sediments to lose their strength and behave like a liquid. This phenomenon, known as liquefaction, can amplify the effects of an earthquake and lead to widespread damage in the region.

6. Urbanization and Population Density

The rapid urbanization and increasing population density in Delhi-NCR have significant implications for earthquake vulnerability. The construction of high-rise buildings without proper adherence to seismic codes and the concentration of infrastructure and people in a limited area can exacerbate the impact of earthquakes. It is crucial to ensure that urban development is carried out with proper consideration for seismic resilience.

7. Historical Seismic Activity

The Delhi-NCR region has a history of seismic activity, with several notable earthquakes recorded over the years. These historical events provide valuable insights into the seismic potential of the region. By studying past earthquakes and their effects, scientists can better understand the risks associated with future earthquakes in Delhi-NCR.

Conclusion

The occurrence of earthquakes in the Delhi-NCR region can be attributed to various factors, including tectonic plate movements, fault lines, subsurface stress accumulation, human-induced activities, liquefaction, urbanization, population density, and historical seismic activity. Understanding these factors is crucial for enhancing preparedness, implementing effective mitigation strategies, and ensuring the safety of the region’s inhabitants.