Earthquake is the most unpredictable natural disaster, which makes it the most dangerous. Nevertheless, it does not mean we cannot do anything about it. We can highly reduce the damage caused by earthquakes. Delhi lies in zone IV in earthquake proneness, which is the second most prone zone. It has experienced various shocks in the past, however, of low magnitudes.
The unchecked construction going on rampantly in the city could prove to be lethal. Infested corruption has made it difficult to follow the construction standards laid out by the Government. The disaster management authorities limit themselves to delivering lectures on some chosen day for earthquake awareness which no one listens to. Mock drills are infrequent, with last held in 2018 limited to schools. The Government is carrying out almost no research on Disaster Management. All of this recklessness can be more dangerous than one can imagine. We do not want the 2000 Bhuj earthquake or 2011 earthquake in Japan to repeat history.
Developed countries like Japan and the US state of California have shown us the way. Both of these countries lie on the Ring of Fire which is a hotbed for earthquakes. These countries have invested heavily in research and implementation to reduce the damage caused by earthquakes considerably. Japan receives almost one thousand big earthquakes every year. To make high rise buildings feasible, they implement innovative designs that are earthquake resistant. Also, They organise a mock drill at the country level every year.
Delhi can learn a lot. The Government should fix loopholes present in the enforcement of BIS standards. "Earthquake does not kill, but the building does". The Government should focus on research in the field and indulge in technology transfer with other countries like Japan to make earthquake-resistant architectural designs. Delhi has a significant share of old buildings that the Government should inspect and take appropriate steps in strengthening. Awareness programmes should be held with compulsory mock drills every year. People should also make an effort at the household level to make themselves secure by incorporating furniture they can take shelter under, emergency kits and supplies, which includes helmets, radio, torch and food supplies.
People should not forget the scenes from Bhuj. People are negligent towards the issue unless some mishap happens and yet again forget the tragedy with time. They should convey disaster management as one of the most concerning issues while voting in elections. The responsibility of disaster management lies entirely with the government sector, and private firms always try to evade and defy the rules to save on extra costs. Thus, there is an urgent need for the Government to act responsibly. We should not wait for the worst to happen and make Delhi earthquake prepared.
