Dehradun: The capital city of Uttarakhand, Dehradun falls under Seismic Zone IV, making it prone to earthquakes. This zone is considered a high-risk area for seismic activity. The region’s vulnerability is due to its location in the active seismic belt of the Himalayas, which is characterized by frequent tectonic movements. But violating the norms and constructing high-rise buildings in this area could lead to massive destruction amid mild earthquake tremors.
Mild tremors of earthquakes on Sunday night
Mild tremors were felt in Dehradun on Sunday night. Although the earthquake was low in intensity, it served as a significant warning. This alert was particularly relevant for skyscrapers built on or near the earthquake line passing through Dehradun. In Dehradun, construction within 30 meters of the earthquake line has been prohibited by Mussoorie-Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA). However, multi-story buildings are still being erected, with authorities approving maps in violation of the government’s order.
Earthquake line was marked and a demand was made to ban construction
In recent days, the earthquake line was marked in the master plan of Dehradun and it was demanded to ban construction around this area. Later, it received the approval of the government as well. However, construction of high-rise buildings is rampant around the earthquake line, which can put this beautiful city in huge danger.
There are 29 other seismic fault lines in Doon Valley
As Dehradun is very sensitive in terms of earthquakes, the main Boundary Thrust Fault Line passes through Rajpur Road, Sahastradhara and Shahanshahi Ashram and the Himalayan Front Thrust Fault Line passes around Mohand. Notably, there are 29 other seismic fault lines in Doon Valley, however, a large number of tall residential and commercial buildings are being constructed in these areas.
Buildings are being repeatedly warned of mild earthquake tremors
According to the MDDA, houses of maximum three floors can be constructed in adjacent areas of these fault lines. In the year 2015, MDDA had made a provision in the building bylaws that permission for building construction will not be given in areas with slope of 30 degree or more. Violating this rule, multi-storey construction has been done in Bidhauli, Mussoorie Road including Malidevta area and the surrounding hilly areas. These buildings are being repeatedly warned of mild earthquake tremors. According to Banshidhar Tiwari, Vice President, MDDA, “MDDA is serious about the construction of tall buildings around the earthquake line. We are taking it seriously to prevent the construction of tall buildings in the fault line area in future.”
What is an earthquake line?
Earthquake line is a long crack beneath the surface of the earth. It is called a fault line. Whenever there is a movement in it, the plates beneath the earth collide and the energy generated by the friction is released which causes an earthquake. According to Naresh Kumar, Senior Scientist, Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehradun, “The earthquake which jolted Dehradun on Sunday was quite mild which caused no damage. However, such earthquakes alert us to future dangers.”