Hingoli District Records Third Earthquake in 24 Hours
A series of tremors in Hingoli district raises concerns about building safety in Maharashtra's seismic zones.
A 2.5 magnitude tremor struck Hingoli, marking the third quake in a day.
Seismic activity has increased in the region, prompting safety concerns for non-engineered structures.
Experts emphasize the need for mandatory geotechnical testing in construction to mitigate earthquake risks.
On Sunday afternoon, a tremor measuring 2.5 on the Richter scale was recorded in Hingoli district, Maharashtra, at 1:31 PM. This event marked the third earthquake in the area within a 24-hour period, causing alarm among local residents. The epicenter was identified between Siddheshwar and Dudhala villages in Aundha Nagnath tehsil, according to Sub Divisional Officer Vikas Mane. Fortunately, no casualties or property damage have been reported, but authorities are closely monitoring the situation and advising residents to remain vigilant.
The recent seismic activity follows two earlier tremors on Saturday morning, one of which registered a magnitude of 3.3 at around 7:46 AM, originating from Gadhala village. This was succeeded by a stronger quake of 4.5 magnitude two hours later, felt across various parts of the district. Historical data indicates that Hingoli has experienced intermittent seismic events over the past six years, including significant tremors of 4.6 and 3.5 magnitudes in July 2023, which caused structural damage to some homes.
Experts are raising alarms about the preparedness of buildings in Maharashtra's Seismic Zone 3 to withstand potential earthquakes. Professor Deepankar Choudhury from IIT Bombay highlighted the vulnerability of non-engineered structures, such as huts and unauthorized buildings, which are at risk even from moderate tremors. He noted that while engineered buildings adhering to IS 1893 codes can endure moderate shaking, many structures in the region lack such resilience, making them susceptible to damage during seismic events.
The implications of these tremors extend beyond immediate safety concerns. The ongoing seismic activity in Hingoli, along with previous tremors in Nashik and Palghar, raises critical questions about the structural integrity of buildings in the region. The BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation has made geotechnical testing mandatory for new constructions to ensure that foundations are designed to withstand seismic forces. This measure aims to enhance the overall safety of structures in earthquake-prone areas.
Looking ahead, residents and authorities are urged to prioritize earthquake preparedness. Homebuyers should inquire about compliance with seismic codes when purchasing properties. As seismic activity continues to pose risks, understanding ground conditions and ensuring proper structural design will be essential in mitigating the impact of future earthquakes in Maharashtra.
