A possibility of an earthquake of high magnitude in Uttarakhand any time

Warning by Scientist of National Geophysical Research Institute

National Geophysical Research Institute’s (NGRI) chief scientist Dr N Purnachandra Rao

New Delhi – National Geophysical Research Institute’s (NGRI) chief scientist Dr N Purnachandra Rao warned against a possibility of an earthquake of high magnitude in Uttarakhand in the near future.  This information has come to light when huge cracks developed in houses, shops and hotels in Joshimath situated at the base of the Himalaya displacing thousands of people.

(Credit : India Today) 

Dr Rao informed us that there were many layers under the surface of the Earth and they were constantly moving. The movement of the Indian plate – about five cm per year – is leading to the accumulation of stress along the Himalaya which could result in an earthquake. Along with Uttarakhand, the western part of Nepal might also face disastrous earthquakes anytime. He further added, “We have a strong network of 18 seismograph stations in Uttarakhand”.