The Kangra earthquake of 1905, one of the most devastating earthquakes in India’s history, serves as a reminder of the seismic risks faced by regions in the Himalayan belt, including Himachal Pradesh. The earthquake caused widespread destruction, loss of life, and left a lasting impact on the area. It highlighted the need for preparedness in earthquake-prone zones, especially through improved infrastructure, disaster management strategies, and public awareness.

Soon 100 more seismological observatories will be added to the seismological network of India by NCS-MoES. Typically, such initiatives are aimed at better earthquake monitoring, early warning systems, and research into seismic activity, but timelines for operationalization can vary. Currently National Centre for Seismology (NCS) under Ministry of Earth Sciences is the nodal agency involved in monitoring seismic activity across the country with the help of National network consisting of 166 stations. NCS conducts regular studies and maintain seismic networks to analyze earthquake data and disseminates this information to various stakeholders of national and state levels using advance technology. Details of earthquakes, which have been detected and reported in and around the country by the National Seismological Network are available on the website of NCS (seismo.gov.in).

The number of permanent seismological observatories in Himachal Pradesh are seven. Details of these observatories and earthquakes occurring in this region and countrywide are available on the website of NCS (seismo.gov.in). Given the heightened seismic activity in the region, the government is likely to continue efforts to expand the network of observatories to improve earthquake preparedness and response capabilities in Himachal Pradesh also.

This information was given by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

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NKR/KS

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