SEISMICITY AND EARTHQUAKE HAZARD IN WESTERN UP WITH A REFERENCE TO 1803 EVENT

SEISMICITY AND EARTHQUAKE HAZARD IN WESTERN UP WITH A REFERENCE TO 1803 EVENT

Abstract

The Himalayas are capable of producing large magnitude (>7) earthquakes like those of 1505, 1803, 1897, 1905 and 1934. The proximity of Indo Gangetic plains with the lesser and central Himalayas makes it seismically active zone. This zone has fairly high seismicity and is generally visited by earthquakes of magnitude 5-6, a few of magnitude 6-7 and occasionally of magnitude 7-8. From past records of 20th century it can be easily deducted that states of Uttaranchal, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh had around 4-5 earthquakes in a period of 100 years with magnitude greater than 6 and less than 7. This paper presents a comprehensive study of 1803 earthquake to prove the fact that the region confronts with a grave danger of seismic hazard. The states of UP and Delhi are considered as most densely populated areas of this country with poorer construction all around and can be said that these are living on the edge of high hazard and destruction.