On September 24, Prof. Harsh K. Gupta, a distinguished earth scientist and former Member of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to discuss ways to enhance earthquake resilience and disaster preparedness in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting occurred at the Public Outreach (Raabita) Office, where crucial strategies for dealing with seismic threats were at the forefront.
The interaction also included Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani and Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice-Chancellor of the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST). Their collective expertise aimed to address the critical issues surrounding the region’s vulnerability to earthquakes, given its location within the perilous Himalayan earthquake belt.
Prof. Gupta delivered a comprehensive presentation on the necessity of developing earthquake-resilient infrastructure. He referenced successful forecasting methodologies used in the northeast Himalayan region, urging similar studies to be conducted in Kashmir. This proactive approach, he explained, could significantly bolster the area’s readiness in the event of a seismic event.
Among the multiple measures proposed by Prof. Gupta, he highlighted the establishment of an “Earthquake Safety Day.” The initiative would focus on educating school students about earthquake safety and emergency responses. Additionally, creating realistic scenarios based on past significant earthquakes would enable planners to develop more effective preparedness strategies.
To reinforce this training, Prof. Gupta recommended conducting mega-mock drills to test and refine existing response mechanisms. He underscored the importance of ensuring strict compliance with earthquake-safe construction practices, to significantly reduce potential damages and casualties during actual seismic events.
Furthermore, Gupta proposed the deployment of Earthquake Early Warning Systems along the Himalayan belt. This technology can provide critical alerts and potentially save lives when an earthquake occurs, allowing people to take immediate safety measures.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah acknowledged Prof. Gupta’s insights, emphasizing the government’s dedication to building earthquake-resilient infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir. The Chief Minister stated that these recommendations would be integral to the region’s broader strategy on disaster preparedness and public safety. He expressed confidence that incorporating these suggestions would foster a safer environment for residents.
As the risk of earthquakes remains a critical concern in their region, Jammu and Kashmir continues to focus on initiatives that enhance community awareness and structural resilience. The call for collaboration between scientists, government officials, and educational institutions represents a significant step towards a secure future, poised to mitigate the impact of natural disasters.
