Government's Earthquake Risk Mitigation Measures

Exam-Focused Notes on Seismic Activity in Kangra-Chamba Region

Earthquake Risk Assessment

• The Kangra-Chamba-Dharamshala region is classified as Seismic Zone V, indicating a high risk for earthquakes.
• The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences monitors seismic activities across India through the National Seismological Network.

Earthquake Data (June 2026)

• Total earthquakes recorded in the Kangra-Chamba area: 16.
• Earthquake intensity range and counts:
  • 2.0 - 2.9: 12 earthquakes
  • 3.0 - 3.9: 3 earthquakes
  • 4.0 - 4.9: 0 earthquakes
  • 5.0 - 5.9: 1 earthquake

Monitoring Infrastructure

• The NCS operates a 24x7 earthquake monitoring network comprising 172 seismic stations nationwide, with 7 stations located in Himachal Pradesh (Shimla, Dharamshala, Tissa, Sundernagar, Kalpa, Bhakra, and Pong Dam).

Disaster Management and Preparedness

• The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) collaborates with state governments for:
  • Mock drills
  • Training for officials and first responders
  • Developing disaster management plans
  • Strengthening emergency response systems

Building Codes and Guidelines

• Implementation of earthquake-resistant construction is guided by:
  • National Building Code (NBC)
  • Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) earthquake-resistant design codes
  • Model building by-laws

Government Strategies

• The government adopts strategies to reduce loss of life and property through:
  • Risk assessment
  • Capacity building
  • Strengthening critical infrastructure
  • Retrofitting of vulnerable buildings

Public Awareness Initiatives

• The NDMA conducts:
  • Public awareness campaigns
  • School and community programs
  • Regular mock drills and training sessions

Scientific Studies

• Seismic microzonation studies are conducted by scientific institutions and universities to enhance disaster preparedness and response capabilities.

Financial and Technical Support

• The government provides financial and technical assistance to all states, including Himachal Pradesh, under various disaster management and prevention schemes to improve readiness against disasters.

Conclusion

• Continuous monitoring, preparedness training, adherence to building codes, and public awareness are critical components in mitigating earthquake risks in the Kangra-Chamba region.