Scientists have discovered a significantly different structural feature in Uttarakhand hills which may lead to a major earthquake.
"Researchers found a significantly different structural feature (in Uttarakhand Hills) as compared to earlier projections. This feature at depth may hold strain (energy) at the location. One of the many possibilities of releasing the stored energy is in the form of a major earthquake," a senior official of the disaster management division of the Home Ministry said.
The scientists of National Geophysical Research Institute, as a part of research project from Department of Science and Technology, carried out detailed seismological investigation of Uttarakhand region for over three years.
The aim of the project was to provide a detailed structural framework for the region with reference to earthquake genesis.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued guidelines on management of earthquakes. Given the high seismic risk and earthquake vulnerability in India, these guidelines require all stakeholders to ensure that, hereafter, all new structures are built in compliance of earthquake resistant building codes and town planning by-laws, the official said.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) also has brought out Indian standards for earthquake resistant design and construction of buildings and structures.
Various provisions contained in the relevant Indian standards, codes, specification, guidelines for earthquake design and construction of buildings are required to be followed for safety, stability and durability of such buildings.
It is the responsibility of the state governments and Union Territory administration to strengthen their technological regimes to make the provisions of the Indian standards and codes mandatory.
