Nepal is a beautiful country nestled in the lap of the Himalayas and its capital is Kathmandu. Nepal is known for its breathtaking landscapes and historical cultural heritage, but at the same time, Nepal is one of the most earthquake-prone regions in the world due to its unique geographical location.
In this blog, we will learn about the reasons behind the frequent earthquakes in Nepal and the impact of earthquakes in Nepal.
Why Is Nepal Prone to Earthquakes?
Location on a Tectonic Collision Zone
Nepal is primarily located between 2 major tectonic plates, which are the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate.
According to scientists, for millions of years the Indian Plate has been slowly colliding with the Eurasian Plate at a rate of about 2 cm per year, which led to the formation of the Himalayas.
This collision creates enormous stress along the fault lines and when the stress exceeds the bearing capacity of the rocks, the plates suddenly start moving, causing earthquakes.
Major Fault Lines in the Region
Several fault lines pass through this region, including the Main Himalayan Thrust (MHT). This is the reason why Nepal experiences frequent earthquakes and sometimes it also causes devastating earthquakes.
Historical Earthquakes in Nepal
Nepal-Bihar massive earthquake (1934)
This earthquake was one of the deadliest earthquakes, measuring 8.0 on the Richter scale, causing massive destruction in many areas including Kathmandu.
Gorkha earthquake (2015)
Another earthquake struck Nepal in 2015, measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale. This earthquake caused massive destruction in Nepal, killing around 9000 people and displacing millions. This earthquake made Nepal think about how poor their disaster preparedness is and the need for better preparation.
The Science Behind Earthquakes in Nepal
Subduction and Uplift
The collision between the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate over the years not only causes earthquakes but also causes the Himalayan Mountains to slowly increase in height over time.
Stress Accumulation
The collision causes stress to build up along fault lines and without small earthquakes to relieve this stress, it accumulates and is followed by sudden large earthquakes.
Shallow Earthquakes
Earthquakes that have an epicentre less than 70 km below the ground surface are called shallow earthquakes and are more destructive.
Impact on Nepal’s Population and Infrastructure
Loss of Life and Property
The devastating earthquake of 2015 caused huge casualties and heavy damage to houses, schools, etc.
Economic Challenges
After the disaster, Nepal’s economy came under pressure as Nepal is dependent on agriculture and tourism.
Psychological and Social Impact
The lives of the survivors change completely as they have to rebuild everything and these disasters leave scars that a person cannot forget throughout his life.
Preparing for Earthquakes: The Way Forward
Creating Resilient Infrastructure
Nepal should adopt strict building laws so that buildings can withstand seismic forces and old buildings should be inspected periodically.
Community Awareness and Preparedness
Nepal should conduct regular earthquake drills in homes, schools and workplaces from time to time and spread awareness as much as possible.
Advanced Monitoring System
Nepal should use equipment that can accurately predict earthquakes so that they can prepare accordingly.
International Cooperation
Nepal can seek cooperation from its neighboring countries and international organizations to improve disaster management.
Global Attention to Nepal’s Earthquake Risks
Whenever there has been a major earthquakes in Nepal, the whole world has come forward to help Nepal. Organizations like the United Nations, the World Bank and the Red Cross have played an important role in the reconstruction efforts and have promised all possible help in the future.
Conclusion
Nepal needs to invest more in its infrastructure and run awareness campaigns among people from time to time and by taking advantage of international partnerships Nepal can reduce the impact of earthquake.
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