On April 4, 1905, one of the most devastating earthquakes in Indian history struck the Kangra region of Himachal Pradesh. Measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale, the earthquake caused widespread destruction and left an indelible mark on the region’s history. The epicenter was near Kangra city, where villages and towns were decimated. The district headquarters, Dharamsala, suffered severe damage, with numerous buildings collapsing. The most tragic loss occurred in Kangra city, where thousands perished under the rubble of their homes. In total, the disaster claimed about 20,000 lives and left many more injured. The region’s infrastructure was devastated, hampering relief efforts. However, the earthquake also led to significant changes in disaster management practices in India, fostering greater awareness and preparedness in the subsequent decades.
As we commemorate the 120th anniversary of this tragic event, we honor the resilience and courage of the people of Kangra who rebuilt their lives and communities. This earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of natural disasters and the importance of disaster preparedness. It is also a moment to pay tribute to those who lost their lives on that fateful day in 1905.
Governments worldwide have implemented numerous initiatives to mitigate the impact of earthquakes, focusing on preparedness, response, and resilience building. These initiatives include:
1. Earthquake Early Warning Systems (EEWS)
Many countries have developed EEWS that provide alerts seconds to minutes before a major earthquake, allowing people to take protective measures.
Japan: The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) operates an EEWS that issues alerts via TV, radio, and mobile phones.
Mexico: The Mexican Seismic Alert System (SASMEX) provides early warnings for earthquake-prone areas, including Mexico City.
2. Building Codes and Regulations
Governments enforce building codes to ensure structures can withstand seismic activity.
USA (California): The California Building Standards Code (Title 24) includes seismic safety regulations. After the 1994 Northridge earthquake, retrofitting older structures became mandatory.
Turkey: Following the 1999 Izmit earthquake, Turkey introduced the Turkish Seismic Design Code to enhance building safety.
3. Public Education and Awareness Campaigns
Educational initiatives help citizens understand earthquake risks and safety measures.
USA (FEMA): FEMA runs campaigns such as “ShakeOut,” a global earthquake drill.
India: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) provides earthquake safety information and conducts awareness programs in seismic zones.
4. Earthquake-Resistant Infrastructure
Governments retrofit essential infrastructure, such as bridges, dams, and highways, to withstand earthquakes.
New Zealand: After the 2011 Christchurch earthquake, New Zealand strengthened public buildings and transportation systems.
Chile: Chile has reinforced infrastructure, particularly in Santiago, to withstand seismic activity.
5. Seismic Hazard Mapping
Seismic mapping helps governments plan land use and emergency preparedness.
USA: The US Geological Survey (USGS) updates the National Seismic Hazard Map to guide policies and regulations.
Japan: The Japanese government provides detailed hazard maps to help local authorities and residents understand earthquake risks.
6. Disaster Response and Recovery Planning
Governments establish emergency management agencies to coordinate relief and recovery.
Nepal: After the 2015 Gorkha earthquake, Nepal strengthened disaster response with international aid.
Indonesia: The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) coordinates earthquake and tsunami response efforts.
7. Seismic Risk Insurance and Financial Assistance
Insurance programs help individuals recover financially from earthquake-related losses.
Japan: A government-backed earthquake insurance system provides financial relief to policyholders.
Turkey: After the 1999 earthquake, Turkey introduced the state-backed earthquake insurance program, DASK.
Recent Earthquake: Myanmar, March 28, 2025
A devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar near the Sagaing-Mandalay border region, causing significant casualties and destruction.
Casualties: The death toll has reached 2,886, with concerns that it may exceed 3,000. More than 4,600 individuals have been injured, and around 373 people remain missing.
Damage: Hospitals, schools, and residential buildings collapsed in Sagaing, Mandalay, and Naypyidaw regions.
The Need for Enhanced Early Warning Systems
Scientists must develop more advanced early warning systems to detect earthquake activity in time, enabling timely evacuation. Additionally, individuals can report earthquakes via the disaster control room’s toll-free number 1077 in all Indian districts.
As we mark this significant anniversary, let us reaffirm our commitment to improving disaster preparedness and resilience. By learning from past tragedies, we can build safer communities for future generations.
