Answer

Introduction

The Hindu Kush–Himalayan region is highly earthquake-prone due to the plate tectonics theory, where the Indian plate’s collision with the Eurasian plate generates immense stress along fault lines. The release of this stress causes frequent and intense earthquakes, often with shallow epicentres, leading to severe destruction.

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Reasons for High Frequency and Intensity of Earthquakes in the Hindu Kush–Himalayan Region

• Plate Tectonic Collision: The Indian plate collides with the Eurasian plate, creating immense tectonic stress along fault lines.
• Continued Crustal Movement: The Indian plate is moving northward at about 5 cm/year, generating recurrent seismic activity.
• Complex Fault Systems: Presence of multiple active fault lines (Main Central Thrust, Main Boundary Thrust, etc.) amplifies seismic risks.
• Shallow Epicentres: Many quakes originate at shallow depths (less than 20 km), increasing surface-level destruction.
• Geological Youth of Himalayas: The Himalayas are geologically young and unstable, prone to landslides and amplification of tremors.
• Seismic History: The region has a long history of high-magnitude quakes, indicating persistent tectonic instability (Herat 2023, Jammu and Kashmir 2005, Nepal 2015).

Measures to Mitigate the Impact of Earthquakes

• Strict Enforcement of Building Codes: Adopt earthquake-resistant design standards, as seen in Chile and Japan.
• Community Awareness and Preparedness: Regular drills, education campaigns, and training to reduce panic and ensure safe responses.
• Early Warning Systems: Investment in seismic monitoring, sensors, and rapid communication networks for timely evacuation.
• Strengthening Disaster Response Capacity: Building well-equipped rescue teams, stockpiling relief materials, and improving medical emergency infrastructure.
• Regional Cooperation: Sharing seismic data and best practices among countries of the Hindu Kush–Himalayan belt.
• Urban Planning and Risk Zoning: Avoid construction on fault lines and unstable slopes, and promote resilient infrastructure in high-risk areas

Conclusion

Reducing risks demands resilient infrastructure and global cooperation. Frameworks like the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and India’s Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) highlight the need for preparedness, stronger building codes, and risk-informed planning to ensure that earthquakes do not translate into recurring human tragedies.

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