Understanding and managing earthquake hazard visa viz disaster mitigation strategies in Kashmir valley, NW Himalaya

Abstract

Kashmir valley lies in the Northwest part of the seismically active Himalayan arc, is vulnerable to earthquakes both from near and far seismogenic sources owing to its unique geological, geographical and seismotectonic setting. The area has witnessed numerous colossal earthquakes throughout its prolific geological past causing severe damage to natural and built environment with intensity levels ranges between VIII–X. Recent data of instrumental seismicity shows that very high peak ground accelerations can be generated by relatively moderate (Mw 6.5–7) earthquakes in this region due to geological/geotechnical aspects of the subsurface stratum. With unplanned and unscientific constructional patterns and tremendous increase in population since last major earthquake combined with warning level of seismic hazard and high liquefaction potential index leads to the insecure future of the region. In this context, a critical review of the historical damaging earthquakes as well as overview of future potential earthquake scenario is presented to review and update the current disaster management scenario of the region. This paper highlights the effective disaster risk reduction and management systems on sound institutional capacities by key actors at different levels (State, Division, District, Municipal, Community and Block levels) to adverse the impacts of earthquake hazards within the broad context of sustainable development of the region. Keywords: Kashmir Valley, Seismic hazard, Liquefaction potential index, Disaster management, Sustainable development