Telangana Experiences Its Second Largest Earthquake in 55 Years
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Hyderabad, Dec 4 (NationPress) The earthquake that struck Telangana on Wednesday morning was the second significant seismic event exceeding 5 on the Richter Scale in the region in the last 55 years.
As reported by the National Center for Seismology, a 5.3 magnitude earthquake was recorded at 7:27 a.m. on Wednesday, with Medaram in Mulugu district of Telangana identified as the epicenter.
The area previously experienced a 5.7 magnitude earthquake on April 13, 1969, with Bhadrachalam serving as the epicenter.
Scientists indicate that both seismic events are associated with the Godavari rift valley, a recognized fault zone.
The tremors were felt across parts of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, as well as in Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra. Tremors were also perceptible in Hyderabad and its neighboring districts.
The earthquake occurred at a depth of 40 kilometers and was experienced over an area of 225 km. Fortunately, there were no reports of casualties or structural damage.
Scientists from the CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) noted that due to the earthquake's intensity, the region may experience aftershocks in the hours to come.
Despite the earthquake's moderate intensity, NGRI Director Prakash Kumar reassured the public that there is no cause for alarm.
Similar to the 1969 Bhadrachalam earthquake, the December 4 event is attributed to the Godavari fault zone. Seismologists have pointed out the presence of numerous fractures and faults throughout the Godavari Basin.
Since Telangana is classified as Seismic Zone II, characterized as having low seismic activity, scientists emphasized that there is no need for public panic.
Retired chief scientist of NGRI, D. Srinagesh, remarked that Wednesday's earthquake serves as a crucial reminder for both Telugu states. He urged local municipalities to ensure that building permits are granted only for structures designed to endure earthquakes typical for their seismic zone.
He also called upon disaster management authorities in both Telugu states to take proactive measures to ensure that buildings comply with the seismic zone requirements.
According to Srinagesh, prioritizing earthquake safety is essential to minimize potential fatalities and property damage. He highlighted that geophysical threats, including earthquakes and landslides, have caused the loss of 30,000 to 40,000 lives in India since 1982.
He compared the Killari earthquake of 1993, which resulted in numerous fatalities due to inadequate building codes, to a similar intensity earthquake in San Francisco, California, which only claimed 24 lives due to the prevalence of earthquake-resistant structures.
