(a) whether as per the findings of the scientists of the National Geophysical Research Institute located in Hyderabad and the researchers of the Stanford University of the United States, there are great possibilities of major earthquakes below the Himalayan region; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and the precautionary measures taken by the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS
(SHRI MULLAPPALLY RAMACHANDRAN)
(a) to (b): 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 3 years. The aim of the project was to provide a detailed structural framework for the region with reference to earthquake genesis. Researchers found a significantly different structural feature 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.
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 byelaws.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) 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/UT Governments to strengthen their technolegal regimes to make the provisions of above Indian Standards and Codes mandatory.