On July 10, 2025, a 4.4 magnitude earthquake struck near Delhi, exposing the fragile seismic preparedness of the National Capital Region and reigniting concerns over India's broader earthquake resilience.

India’s Seismic Exposure and Urban Fragility

• Tectonic Setting and High-Risk Zones:India lies on an active tectonic boundary where the Indian Plate collides with the Eurasian Plate, rendering the Himalayas and adjoining regions highly susceptible to seismic events, including potential “Great Himalayan Earthquakes” (Magnitude 8+).
• Delhi’s High-Risk Profile:The capital city falls within Seismic Zone IV, with over 80% of buildings non-compliant with IS 1893:2016 norms, endangering its 33.5 million residents and more than 5,000 high-rises.
• Precedents of Catastrophic Earthquakes:Past disasters such as the 2001 Bhuj (M 7.7) and 2015 Nepal quake (M 7.8) highlight the lethal impact of unpreparedness and reinforce the urgent need for resilient infrastructure.

Regional Patterns and Structural Deficiencies

• Recurring Seismic Events Across Asia:The 2025 quakes in Myanmar (M 7.7), Tibet (M 5.7), and Greece (M 6.2) reflect a pattern of global tectonic unrest, with India’s northeast and Himalayan belt consistently affected.
• Urbanisation and Enforcement Gaps:Rapid expansion in Delhi, particularly in East Delhi’s liquefaction-prone zones, and poor compliance with seismic safety norms compound the risk posed by moderate or strong tremors.
• Neglect of Seismic Codes Nationwide:Critical cities such as Guwahati, Bhuj, and Port Blair continue to face significant hazards due to non-adherence to IS 1893 standards, lack of retrofitting, and weak institutional enforcement mechanisms.

Pathways for Seismic Resilience

• Retrofitting and Engineering Solutions:Mandating ductile detailing, deep pile foundations, and retrofitting of vulnerable structures with steel jacketing are essential to mitigate seismic impact in high-risk areas.
• Strengthening Institutional Mechanisms:Authorities like the Delhi Development Authority and National Center for Seismology must expedite building audits, expand early warning systems, and implement disaster response training, especially in rural Seismic Zone V regions.
• Learning from Global Practices:Countries like Thailand (Bangkok) and Japan have adopted material innovations, strict enforcement, and public preparedness campaigns that India must emulate, while tailoring interventions to its unique seismic geography.

Practice Question:

Considering India’s tectonic vulnerabilities and urban expansion, critically examine the effectiveness of the country’s existing seismic safety frameworks. Suggest structural and administrative measures needed to enhance earthquake resilience in high-risk zones. (250 words)