According to an estimate discussed by researchers in the Seismological Research Letters (2017), over 700 human-induced earthquakes have been recorded globally in the past 150 years.

• With growing water and energy demands, scientists are increasingly concerned about such quakes in sensitive regions like Delhi-NCR, the Gangetic plains, the Himalayas, and the Western Ghats.

What Are Human-Induced Earthquakes?

• These are earthquakes triggered by human actions that alter natural geological processes.
• Common triggers include:
  • Groundwater extraction
  • Mining
  • Large dam construction and operation
  • Fluid injection 
  • Tall structures or coastal engineering
• Over 700 such quakes have been recorded globally in the past 150 years.

Delhi NCR: Prone to Human Induced Earthquakes – Key Reasons

• Location of Seismic Fault Line: Delhi lies in Seismic Zone IV, one of India’s most earthquake-prone zones. The region is intersected by active fault lines, making it inherently vulnerable to seismic disturbances.
• Over-Extraction of Groundwater: Excessive withdrawal of groundwater for agriculture and drinking leads to a drop in the water table. This reduces subsurface pressure that supports the crust, potentially triggering tremors.
  • Example: A study observed a rise in seismic activity between 2003 and 2012 when groundwater levels declined sharply. After 2014, as water levels stabilized, earthquake frequency dropped.

Other Types of Human Induced Earthquakes

• Reservoir-Induced Seismicity: Large dams change surface pressure and water percolation, disturbing local tectonic balance.

• For Example:
  • Koyna (Maharashtra, 1967): 6.3-magnitude quake, — linked to hydroelectric dam reservoir.
  • Mullaperiyar Dam (Kerala): Recorded increased seismicity in quake-prone Idukki district.

Hydropower & Fracking

• India’s push for hydropower and use of 56 fracking sites pose additional quake risks.
• Fracking injects fluids to break rock formations, inducing tremors.
• Major concern in Himalayan regions due to their fragile geology. 

Impact of Climate Change

• Melting glaciers in polar regions (Antarctica, Greenland) linked to seismic activity.
• Heavy rainfall alters crustal stress and triggers shallow quakes (e.g., Western Ghats).
• Droughts have also reactivated faults (e.g., Drought induced earthquake in California, 2014).

Expert Recommendations

• Regulate groundwater extraction and improve recharge practices.
• Evaluate seismic risks before building dams, especially in tectonic zones.
• Implement dam operation regulations, including filling/emptying rates.
• Expand seismic monitoring networks in sensitive regions.

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