Studies warn of major earthquake in State
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 24 2019: Claiming that studies carried out by certain authorities, including Geological Survey of India has been warning that a devastating earthquake measuring 7.5 on the Richter scale may hit Manipur anytime in future, Relief and Disaster Management Deputy Director Md Ayub Khan has called upon the State Government and authorities concerned to be always fully prepared to respond to any such eventuality.

Giving the key-note address at the inaugural function of a five day training programme on disaster management at 1st MR Banquet Hall here today, the Deputy Director further stated that experts are also estimating many can be killed or injured if the State is rocked by earthquake measuring 7.5 on the Richter scale in view of the type of buildings and structures built in the State, particularly Imphal city.

Most buildings and structures in and around Imphal city are built without proper assessment or in such manner so as to resist earthquake.

Studies warn of major earthquake in State

Most buildings and structures are usually built in consultation with head masons, without consulting engineers and architects.

Also, many buildings in and around Imphal City are quite old and they lack proper renovation.

Hence, many of the buildings and structures in and around Imphal City could collapse when a strong earthquake like 7.5 magnitude jolts the State, he added.

Ayub Khan said that it is high time to take corrective and preventive measures in all possible aspects.

He then stressed on the importance of media in informing public about natural calamities and earthquake in advance so that public are aware and considerate about issues like earthquake and other natural calamities.

Speaking as the chief guest at the function, 1st MR Commandant M Rajen Singh said that Manipur is located in a highly active seismic zone.

He underscored the importance of providing suitable trainings to State Police Force to deal with occurrence of earthquake and other natural calamities adding that the State force personnel are the first ones who have to respond to natural calamities.

Conveying that personnel from MR, Civil Police, Home Guards and IRB will take part in the five days training programme on disaster management which will be held till June 28 at 1st MR, the Commandant asked all the participants to regularly attend and acquire all possible skills and knowledge from the lectures and demonstration classes during the said training programme.