(a) whether the Government is aware that a powerful earthquake similar to the one that occurred in December, 2004, hit the coast of Indonesia recently;
(b) if so, the details in this regard;
(c) whether the Government has taken any preventive measures in this regard; and
(d) if so, the details thereof ?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AND MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE DEPARTMENT OF OCEAN DEVELOPMENT (KAPIL SIBAL)
(a) Yes Sir.
(b) An earthquake of 8.3 Magnitude Strength occurred on 28 March, 2005 at 21.40 Hours IST with its epicenter off west coast of Sumatra Island, Indonesia.
(c)&(d) Considering the large magnitude and the location of the epicenter of the earthquake, India Meteorological Department has informed about the possibility of Tsunami to the Ministry of Home Affairs. After ascertaining that no unusual sea conditions are reported from Port Blair and Chennai offices of India Meteorological Department the advice was withdrawn after about four hours. The advice was issued to ensure that no loss of life occurs.