Editorial | Why J&K is earthquake-prone

Geo-scientists say the main reason Jammu and Kashmir are prone to frequent earthquakes is because it lies near the boundary of two moving shelves Indian tectonic plate which moves southwards and Eurasian shelf going northwards.

 These plates that never stop moving overlap and sometimes rub against one another, leading to earthquakes along the earth’s crust. The crash formed the Himalayas and also renders it one of most seismically active regions on Earth.

The second reason has to do with the many fault lines in that region. Fault lines are areas of fractured Earth where rock on one side can slide past the rock on another. Hence, where the stress is released in these fault lines will give rise an earthquake. Cumulatively, such motion can build to catastrophic events as has been the case up through recorded history.

The rugged terrain in the mountainous region also helps shake building, amplifying effects of earthquakes. Mountains and valleys can amplify or reflect seismic waves, aggravating shaking in certain spots.

Moreover, if the construction of buildings without having constructed by using proper earthquake-resistant techniques puts a higher amount of risk on causing loss and damage at an earthquake impost.

How To Be Safe During An Earthquake Indoors Drop to the ground, take cover under a piece of furniture (anything that will provide protection from falling dust) and hold on until the shaking stops. Avoid windows and objects that could fall. Then move to an open area and stay away from buildings, trees or power lines if you are outdoors. In the event of an earthquake, let your dog go (or make sure it stays in place), check for injuries and damage after shaking stops earthquakes can be followed by aftershocks.

The understanding of the risks and their preparedness will make the people in Jammu & Kashmir to be able to protect themselves, their family members during a massive earthquake.