Skill India

Earthquake:

The Union Territory of Ladakh is in the western most extension of Himalayan mountain range in India. It comprises of Pir Panjal, Zanskar, Karakoram and Ladakh ranges. The Main Boundary Thrust (MBT) underlies the Pir Panjal range and is known as the Panjal thrust in the region. The Zanskar ranges which are part of the Great Himalayan range are under laid by the Zanskar Thrust. Along the Zanskar and Ladakh ranges runs a NW-SE trending strike-slip fault, the longest in the Jammu and Kashmir area. Leh district falls in seismic zone IV (Damage Risk Zone). However, it must be stated that proximity to faults does not necessarily translate into a higher hazard as compared to areas located further away as damage from earthquakes depends on numerous factors such as sub-surface geology as well as adherence to the building codes. Since it is in zone IV, all precautions are required to minimize the loss of life and property. In 2020-21, earthquakes rocked Lehseveral timeson the following dates and times:

Mitigation of Earthquake:

a.Long Term Measures-

Long term measures for earthquake disaster mitigation may include:
  • Re-framing the building codes, guidelines, manuals and bye-laws and their
  • Proper implementation. Stricter legislation for highly seismic areas in this regard.
  • In high risk areas, all building should incorporate earthquake resistant features.
  • Public utilities like water supply system, communication network, electricity lines etc. must be earthquake proof to reduce damages to the infrastructure facilities. Alternative arrangement for the same must be developed.
  • Community buildings and buildings used for gathering of large number of persons like schools, dharamshalas, hospitals, prayer halls etc. must be made earthquake resistant in seismic zones of moderate to high intensities.
  • Supporting R&D in various aspects of disaster mitigation, preparedness and prevention and post disaster management.
  • Improving educational curricula in architecture and engineering institutions.
  • Technical training in polytechnics and schools to include disaster related topics.

b.Medium Term Measures-

The medium term measures for earthquake disaster mitigation may include:
  • Retrofitting of the weak structures in the highly seismic zones.
  • Preparation of literature in local languages with Do’s and Don’ts for the building constructions.
  • Getting community involved in the process of disaster mitigation by providing them proper education and awareness. Supporting local technical institutions / colleges / school to organize research and to organize exhibitions etc. for public awareness.
  • Networking of local NGOs working in the area of disaster management.