Guwahati, the largest city in Assam, recently experienced a 5.0-magnitude earthquake in the early hours of February 27, 2025. The tremor, originating from Morigaon district at a depth of 16 kilometers, was strong enough to be felt across Guwahati and nearby regions. While no immediate damage or casualties were reported, the earthquake served as a stark reminder of the region’s seismic vulnerability.
In This Article:
Understanding the Recent Earthquake in Guwahati
The National Center for Seismology (NCS) reported that the earthquake struck at 2:25 AM, shaking buildings and startling residents. Assam and its neighboring states fall under Seismic Zone V, the highest earthquake-prone classification in India. This means the region frequently experiences seismic activity due to its proximity to major fault lines.
The Kopili Fault, an active fault line running through Assam and Meghalaya, is a significant contributor to seismic activity in the region. It is known for its right-lateral strike-slip movement, which makes it particularly unstable. Earthquakes like the recent one in Morigaon are often linked to this fault line, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring and preparedness.
Impact of the Earthquake on Guwahati
Although the earthquake was relatively mild compared to past seismic events in Assam, it still caused concerns among residents. Several people took to social media to report the tremors, with some evacuating their homes temporarily. No structural damage has been officially reported, but authorities continue to assess vulnerable buildings and infrastructure.
Guwahati, as a rapidly growing urban center, has numerous high-rise buildings, shopping complexes, and bridges that could be at risk during stronger quakes. The recent event highlights the need for strict enforcement of earthquake-resistant building codes and public awareness campaigns to ensure safety.
Historical Earthquakes in Guwahati and Assam
Assam has a history of devastating earthquakes. The two most significant ones include:
- 1897 Shillong Earthquake (Magnitude 8.1): One of the most powerful earthquakes in India, it caused widespread destruction, including landslides and changes in river courses.
- 1950 Assam-Tibet Earthquake (Magnitude 8.6): This earthquake caused severe damage across Assam, leading to thousands of casualties and significant changes to the landscape, including the formation of new water bodies.
More recently, on April 28, 2021, a 6.0-magnitude earthquake hit Dhekiajuli, about 140 kilometers from Guwahati. It resulted in minor injuries and structural cracks in buildings across the city. These past events underline the need for earthquake preparedness in Guwahati.
Why Assam is Prone to Earthquakes
Assam’s geographical location makes it one of the most earthquake-prone states in India. The key reasons include:
- Tectonic Activity: Assam lies at the convergence of the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate, leading to constant stress along fault lines.
- Presence of Active Faults: The Kopili Fault, the Main Frontal Thrust, and the Dauki Fault contribute to frequent seismic activity.
- Soft Alluvial Soil: The presence of soft alluvial soil along the Brahmaputra River amplifies seismic waves, increasing the risk of damage.
Preparedness and Mitigation Measures
To minimize the impact of future earthquakes, several earthquake preparedness measures need to be reinforced in Guwahati:
1. Strengthening Infrastructure
- Enforcing seismic-resistant building codes for new constructions.
- Retrofitting old structures to make them earthquake-resistant.
- Conducting structural assessments of bridges, flyovers, and high-rise buildings.
2. Public Awareness and Safety Drills
- Conducting earthquake drills in schools, offices, and residential societies.
- Educating people about the Drop, Cover, and Hold On technique during an earthquake.
- Encouraging families to have an emergency preparedness plan, including food, water, and first aid supplies.
3. Government Initiatives and Monitoring
- The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) conducts regular seismic hazard assessments and provides guidelines for preparedness.
- Setting up early warning systems to provide real-time alerts.
- Strengthening collaboration with national and international seismological research organizations to monitor tectonic activity.
The Future of Seismic Safety in Guwahati
While earthquakes cannot be prevented, preparedness can significantly reduce risks. Guwahati’s rapid urbanization makes it crucial for authorities to implement strict construction regulations, ensure public awareness, and develop efficient disaster response plans.
Residents must also take personal precautions, such as securing furniture, knowing safe evacuation routes, and staying informed through credible sources. By fostering a culture of preparedness, Guwahati can mitigate the impact of future seismic events and protect its people and infrastructure.
The February 27, 2025, earthquake in Guwahati serves as a wake-up call to enhance earthquake preparedness in the region. While the tremors caused no immediate damage, they highlight the importance of proactive measures. By improving infrastructure resilience, promoting public awareness, and strengthening emergency response strategies, Guwahati can be better prepared for future earthquakes.
By – Jyothi
