Who amongst the following will be at more risk with respect to the earthquake hazard zone specified by the Geological Survey of India ?
Malti at Pithoragarh
Understanding Earthquake Hazard Zones in India
Earthquakes are a significant natural hazard in many parts of the world, including India. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) have classified India into different seismic zones based on the expected intensity of earthquakes. These zones indicate the level of seismic risk a particular area faces.
The seismic zonation map of India divides the country into four zones:
- Zone V: This is the most active seismic zone, with the highest risk of earthquakes. It covers parts of the Himalayas, the North-Eastern region, the Rann of Kutch, and some areas of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Zone IV: This zone is considered high risk, but less severe than Zone V. It includes parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, plains of North India, parts of Gujarat, and limited areas in Maharashtra.
- Zone III: This zone is considered moderate risk. It covers a large part of the Indian peninsula, including parts of central and southern India, as well as areas along the east coast and west coast not classified in higher zones.
- Zone II: This is the least active seismic zone, considered low risk. It covers the stable continental interiors where the probability of strong earthquakes is lower.
Analyzing Locations and Seismic Risk
Let's examine the locations mentioned in the options and their general classification within India's seismic hazard zones:
- Secunderabad (Telangana): Secunderabad is located in the Deccan Plateau region, which is generally considered seismically stable. Most of this region falls under Zone II or Zone III, indicating a relatively lower to moderate earthquake risk.
- Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Indore is in central India. Much of Madhya Pradesh falls under Zone II or Zone III. Indore specifically is typically classified under Zone III, representing moderate earthquake risk.
- Pithoragarh (Uttarakhand): Pithoragarh is located in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand. The Himalayan region is tectonically very active and is prone to frequent and strong earthquakes. Pithoragarh is situated in a region generally categorized under Zone V or Zone IV, representing a very high to high earthquake risk. Many areas of Uttarakhand, including Pithoragarh, are considered to be in Zone V.
- Bhubaneswar (Odisha): Bhubaneswar is located on the east coast of India. The coastal areas and much of Odisha are typically classified under Zone III, indicating a moderate earthquake risk.
Comparing the seismic zones of these locations:
- Pithoragarh: Zone V or IV (Very High to High Risk)
- Indore: Zone III (Moderate Risk)
- Bhubaneswar: Zone III (Moderate Risk)
- Secunderabad: Zone II or III (Low to Moderate Risk)
Based on this comparison, Pithoragarh falls into the highest earthquake hazard zone among the given options.
Determining Who is at More Risk
The person residing in the location with the highest seismic hazard zone will be at more risk from earthquakes. Comparing the zones, Pithoragarh (Zone V/IV) has a significantly higher risk compared to Indore (Zone III), Bhubaneswar (Zone III), and Secunderabad (Zone II/III).
Therefore, Malti at Pithoragarh is at the highest risk among the individuals mentioned.
| Person | Location | Estimated Seismic Zone (GSI/BIS Classification) | Relative Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shahji | Secunderabad | Zone II / Zone III | Low to Moderate |
| Ranbir | Indore | Zone III | Moderate |
| Malti | Pithoragarh | Zone V / Zone IV | Very High to High |
| Maitri | Bhubaneswar | Zone III | Moderate |
The person at more risk is the one located in the zone with the highest potential for seismic activity and intensity. Malti, residing in Pithoragarh, which lies in a high-risk zone (Zone V/IV), is thus at more risk compared to Shahji, Ranbir, and Maitri who are in lower-risk zones.
Revision Table: Earthquake Risk Factors
| Concept | Description |
|---|---|
| Seismic Zones | Areas classified based on the expected intensity of earthquakes (Zones II to V in India). |
| Zone V | Highest seismic risk zone. |
| Zone II | Lowest seismic risk zone. |
| Geological Survey of India (GSI) | The primary scientific agency for geological studies and hazard mapping in India. |
| Earthquake Hazard | The potential for damaging effects from earthquakes in a given area. |
Additional Information: Earthquake Preparedness
Living in an earthquake-prone zone means being prepared. Knowing your seismic zone is the first step. Additionally, it's important to:
- Understand and practice 'Drop, Cover, and Hold On' during an earthquake.
- Have an emergency kit ready with essential supplies.
- Secure heavy objects in your home to prevent them from falling.
- Know the safe spots in your home, away from windows and heavy furniture.
- Have an emergency plan for your family.
- If you live in a high-risk zone, ensure your building is constructed according to seismic-resistant building codes.
Being aware of the earthquake hazard in your area and taking preparedness measures can significantly reduce risks.
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