On September 24, renowned Earth Scientist Prof. Harsh K. Gupta engaged in crucial discussions with Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at the Public Outreach (Raabita) Office. They focused on strengthening earthquake resilience and enhancing disaster preparedness throughout the region.
Accompanying them were key officials, including Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani and Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, the Vice-Chancellor of the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST). Together, they acknowledged the pressing need to address the seismic risks that challenge the region.
During the meeting, Prof. Gupta emphasized the significance of developing earthquake-resilient infrastructure in Kashmir, which resides in the vulnerable Himalayan earthquake belt. Citing successful medium-term earthquake forecasts in the northeast Himalayan region, he advocated for similar initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir.
Prof. Gupta proposed several actionable measures for the region, including:
- Establishing an “Earthquake Safety Day” to raise awareness.
- Training school students on earthquake safety protocols.
- Conducting scenario analyses of past major earthquakes to inform preparedness efforts.
- Executing large-scale mock drills to test response times and resilience.
- Ensuring strict adherence to earthquake-safe construction practices.
- Implementing Earthquake Early Warning Systems throughout the Himalayan belt.
Chief Minister Abdullah expressed appreciation for Prof. Gupta’s insights and outlined the government’s commitment to prioritizing earthquake resilience in Jammu and Kashmir. He assured that the proposed suggestions would be incorporated as part of the region’s broader strategy for disaster preparedness and public safety.
This meeting marks a significant step towards enhancing the safety and resilience of Jammu and Kashmir against potential seismic hazards. With experts like Prof. Gupta advocating for proactive measures, the region aims to bolster its defenses against the unpredictable nature of earthquakes.
