week 3 (Earthquakes)

 Earthquakes and Mitigation Methods in Nepal (A Release of Energy at Faults).



Earthquakes result when stored tension in faults is suddenly released, producing seismic waves that move through the interior and exterior of the planet. Seismic waves fall under three categories: P-waves (Primary), S-waves (Secondary), and Surface waves, with surface waves producing most of the damage. Two key terms in earthquakes include intensity and magnitude. Magnitude (calculated using scales such as Moment Magnitude Scale - Mw) describes the total output of energy at an earthquake source. In contrast, intensity (Modified Mercalli Intensity - MMI) describes shaking and damage severity at a range of locations

Seismicity of Nepal: High-Risk Zone, Nepal is one of the most seismically active countries in the world as it is located at a convergent boundary at which the Indian Plate collides with the Eurasian Plate at a velocity of about 45 mm per annum. The tremendous tectonic force generates routine seismic activity, and through its creation, Himalayas have been produced, and at times, catastrophic earthquakes have been produced. One of the most catastrophic earthquakes in Nepal’s history was the 2015 Gorkha Earthquake (M7.8), which claimed nearly 9,000 lives, injured over 22,000 people, and destroyed hundreds of thousands of homes. The disaster highlighted the urgent need for earthquake resilience and preparedness in Nepal.

Nepal’s Earthquake Mitigation Strategies: Reacting to its seismic susceptibility, Nepal has taken a variety of actions towards lessening earthquake danger in terms of changing policies, technological development, and public awareness.


✅ Earthquake-Resistant Building Code Implementation: Following the 2015 earthquake, Nepal strengthened its National Building Code in such a manner that new constructions will become less susceptible to earthquakes. Engineers and architects can utilize quake-resistant materials and retrofit techniques to secure and make buildings safer.

✅ Seismic Monitoring and Early Warning Systems: Nepal is working together with USGS (United States Geological Survey) and JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) in developing early warning and enhancing seismic observation. The creation of seismic networks helps in the detection of earthquakes and issuing warnings, yet earthquake prediction in real time is a challenge.

✅ Community awareness and preparedness programs: NSET (National Society for Earthquake Technology - Nepal) organizes public training, awareness programs, and earthquake drills. Schools, businesses, and communities regularly practice evacuation drills in preparation for earthquakes. Public education programs inform citizens "Drop, Cover, and Hold" techniques for protecting oneself during earthquakes.

✅ Retrofitting and Reinforcing Infrastructure: Many historical buildings and monuments have been strengthened in a move to make them safer during earthquakes. Public buildings such as schools, hospitals, and government offices are given high-priority seismic retrofitting.

✅ Seismic Hazard Mapping and Land-Use Planning: Scientists and geologists use seismic hazard maps to plot high-risk areas and inform infrastructure planning. Development within such areas, such as near fault lines, is restricted or regulated.


Conclusion: The Need for Earthquake Preparedness Though earthquakes cannot be prevented, strengthening of buildings, seismic observation, and public awareness in Nepal have gone a long way in reducing the effects of future earthquakes. Continued investment in early warnings, research, and disaster management policies is crucial in safeguarding lives and infrastructure in Nepal. By adopting a scientific approach and strengthening disaster resilience, Nepal is steadily working towards minimizing earthquake peril and protecting its citizens from future earthquakes. 

References United States Geological Survey (USGS): https://earthquake.usgs.gov/

 IRIS Seismology: https://www.iris.edu National Society for Earthquake Technology/ 

 Nepal (NSET): https://www.nset.org.np/ 


Nepal Government Disaster Risk Reduction Portal: www.drrportal.gov.np/

Comments

  1. Angelica G.February 11, 2025 at 1:24 PM

    Hello Koshish,
    Similarly to my country Chile they both are convergent boundaries that collide with each other. Your blog was very informative and was well presented. Your countries position on the plate is very interesting since it is near a lot of seismic activity. It is important for the government to be able to find ways to prepare its citizens with warning systems and bringing community awareness to everyone. Overall, great blog post thank you for sharing!

    ReplyDelete

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