Seismic hazard map mooted
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 12 2012:
In view of the increasing frequency of earthquakes in Manipur and the surrounding region, Manipur University Seismological Observatory scientist Dr Manichandra Sanoujam has advocated drawing up a seismic hazard map in order to reduce earthquake casualties.
Talking to The Sangai Express, Dr Manichandra said that there is tectonic movement in the Indian plate towards the Burmese plate at the rate of 4 centimetres in a year.
The faultlines separating these plates is located in Manipur.
Areas where faultlines are located are most prone to earthquakes.
Earthquake is a natural phenomenon which is beyond the control of mankind.
Whenever earthquake occurs in Myanmar, Manipur, Nagaland and Mizoram would always be affected.
The most intense earthquake was recorded on August 15, 1950 with its epicentre just across Arunachal Pradesh border in China.
Its intensity reached 8.7 on Richter's scale.
After that no major earthquake was recorded.
Generally, earthquakes of such magnitude occur after a gap of 50 years.
But it cannot be said in advance when and where would such earthquakes would occur.
Indonesia endured a devastating earthquake triggered by tsunami which reached 9.3 magnitude on Richter's scale in 2004 .
There is strong possibility of major earthquakes in Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram and adjoining areas, warned Dr Manichandra.
Between 2010 and 2012, earth has endured earthquakes of 6.8 magnitude and higher 110 times.
There is a need to amend the Imphal Municipal Council by-law related to construction of buildings.
It is also necessary to draw a seismic hazard map in view of the increasing frequency of earthquakes.
It is advisable not to build schools and hospitals higher than two storeys so that students and patients can run out for safety without much difficulty in the event of earthquakes.
Contractors should pay extra attention to qualitative aspect when executing any construction work.
The nature earthquake shock recorded at Imphal, Lamphelpat, hills and Loktak lake are all different because of variation in the soil structures.
It is advisable to conduct soil testing before constructing any multi-storeyed building.
Yesterday's earthquake which reached 6.8 magnitude would have caused large damages in Manipur had its epicentre been near Ningthi river.
There were also cases of inferno which broke out from electric at times of earthquakes.
With the help of seismograph, the Seismological Observatory of Manipur University has been recording movement of tectonic plates everyday.
There are seismographs, one at Hundung in Ukhrul district, another at Toribari, Kangpokpi and the third at Manipur University.