1. NEHU seminar warns of catastrophic impact if an 8.7 magnitude earthquake hits Shillong today.
2. Prof. Devesh Walia: A repeat of the 1897 earthquake could claim 500,000 lives due to vulnerabilities.
3. The event emphasizes the region’s seismic risk and urgent need for preparedness.
Shillong, June 13: A seminar on the “127th Anniversary of the Great Shillong Earthquake of 1897: Are we prepared?” held at the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) on June 12 underscored the potentially catastrophic consequences if a similar earthquake struck the region today.
Prof. Devesh Walia of NEHU’s School of Human and Environmental Science highlighted that seismologists estimate a repeat of the 8.7 magnitude earthquake could result in at least 500,000 deaths due to current vulnerabilities and population density.
The Great Shillong Earthquake of 1897, occurring at 5:11 pm, was a landmark event as the first recorded earthquake to break the Earth’s crust surface, claiming 1,542 lives despite most people being awake and outdoors.
Experts stressed the need for preparedness to mitigate devastation, emphasizing the importance of adhering to building codes and improving earthquake prediction.
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The seminar also addressed post-earthquake management, disaster response plans, seismic hazard assessment, early warning systems, and community preparedness, with insights from geologists, seismologists, and disaster management experts.
Padmashri Prof. Harsh K Gupta, former Director of NGRI and President of the Geological Society of India, emphasized the inevitability of earthquakes and the significance of effective mitigation measures. He proposed observing June 12 as National Earthquake Day to promote awareness.
GK Kesari, ADG & HoD of the Geological Survey of India’s North-Eastern Region, discussed pressing issues surrounding Seismic Zone V and proposed effective mitigation strategies. Dr. OP Mishra, Advisor and Director of the National Centre for Seismology, stressed the need for resilient infrastructure design.
The event featured a cultural dance performance, an educational skit on earthquake safety by NEHU’s Department of Geology, and a Geo-exhibition showcasing rocks, fossils, and space technology models.
The seminar concluded with the announcement of four participants selected to represent India at the International Earth Science Olympiad (IESO) 2024 in Beijing, China.
Commemorating the 127th anniversary of the Great Shillong Earthquake, the seminar served as a sobering reminder of the region’s seismic vulnerability and the importance of proactive disaster risk reduction strategies.
