Magnitude 5.8 Earthquake Strikes India's Northeast Region
A moderate earthquake of magnitude 5.8 struck India's Northeast region on Sunday afternoon, with its epicentre in Assam's Udalguri district. The tremors were felt across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and parts of West Bengal, causing panic and leading people to rush out of their homes. The quake, which had a shallow depth of 5 km, has not resulted in any immediate reports of major damage or casualties. The region is located in a high seismic zone and frequently experiences earthquakes.
Unpacked:
Northeast India, including Assam, sits atop several active fault lines due to its proximity to the Himalayan Frontal Thrust and other tectonic features. This region is classified as Zone V, the highest seismic risk category in India, and frequently experiences moderate to severe earthquakes.
Earthquakes are frequent in Assam, with an average of 74 earthquakes per year of magnitude 4 or higher. Moderate quakes like the recent 5.8 event occur regularly, making seismic activity a recurring concern for the region.
Major earthquakes in Assam's history include the 1897 quake (magnitude 8.7) and the 1950 quake (magnitude 8.6), both causing widespread destruction and casualties. The region has a long record of damaging seismic events.
Assam has implemented building codes for earthquake-resistant constructions and conducts regular public awareness campaigns. However, enforcement and retrofitting older structures remain ongoing challenges, given the region's high seismic hazard.