Odisha, despite not being among India’s most seismically active regions, has experienced multiple earthquake tremors over the years. Historically, a few moderate earthquakes have struck the state, with some events exceeding magnitude 5.0, particularly originating in the Bay of Bengal.
As per reports, in the past decade, Odisha has witnessed around 30 earthquakes with a magnitude of 4.0 or higher within a 300-kilometer radius of its coastline. This raises concerns about the state’s seismic vulnerability, especially in certain districts that fall under moderate-risk zones.
🔍 Odisha’s Seismic Risk: Are Earthquakes a Growing Concern?
Odisha’s Seismic Zones
Odisha is classified under Seismic Zones II and III, indicating a low-to-moderate earthquake risk. However, recent studies suggest that tectonic interactions between the Indian Plate and Myanmar Microplate beneath the Bay of Bengal contribute to seismic activity in the region. Additionally, subsurface faults in the Mahanadi Basin, including coastal and river valley fractures, add to the earthquake threat.
🔴 Districts Under Seismic Risk
According to the Earthquake Hazard Zoning Atlas of India (2016), 15 districts in Odisha fall under Zone III (moderate intensity zone). These districts are:
- 📍 Coastal & Central Odisha: Puri, Khordha, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Jajpur, Dhenkanal, Angul
- 📍 Western Odisha: Deogarh, Sambalpur, Bargarh, Jharsuguda, Sundargarh
- 📍 Northern Odisha: Balasore, Mayurbhanj
While these districts do not face the same level of seismic threat as high-risk zones like North-East India or the Himalayas, the risk of moderate earthquakes remains, especially in coastal areas where tectonic activities occur beneath the Bay of Bengal.
📊 Recent Earthquakes in Odisha
Although large earthquakes are rare, Odisha has witnessed multiple minor and moderate earthquakes over the years. Some of the most recent quakes include:
- 🔹 February 25, 2025 – A magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck the Bay of Bengal at 6:10 AM, causing mild tremors in Bhubaneswar, Puri, Berhampur, and Balasore. No significant damage or casualties were reported.
- 🔹 March 3, 2023 – A magnitude 3.8 earthquake occurred in Koraput district, affecting Dasmantpur, Laxmipur, and Narayanpatna blocks. No major damage or injuries were recorded.
While these earthquakes were not destructive, experts emphasize the importance of preparedness and strict adherence to earthquake-resistant infrastructure guidelines.
🏗️ Earthquake Preparedness Measures in Odisha
Given the increasing frequency of minor earthquakes, experts suggest proactive measures to minimize damage and enhance safety. Here are key earthquake preparedness strategies for Odisha:
🏢 1. Seismic Zoning Compliance
- Buildings, especially in Zone III districts, should adhere to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) earthquake-resistant construction codes (IS 1893:2016).
- New infrastructure projects must incorporate shock-absorbing foundations and flexible materials to withstand tremors.
🛑 2. Strengthening Disaster Response
- The Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) has been working on earthquake mock drills and early warning systems to prepare citizens.
- Emergency evacuation plans should be widely disseminated in urban and rural areas.
🏚️ 3. Retrofitting Old Structures
- Many buildings in older cities like Puri, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Balasore require retrofitting to improve earthquake resistance.
- Government and private initiatives must focus on strengthening hospitals, schools, and public buildings.
📢 4. Real-Time Earthquake Alerts
- Citizens should use mobile apps like the IMD Earthquake App for real-time earthquake alerts and safety guidelines.
- These tools provide instant notifications of tremors, helping people take precautionary measures.
🏫 5. Community Awareness & Safety Drills
- Schools, offices, and community centers should conduct regular earthquake safety training programs.
- People should be educated about the “Drop, Cover, and Hold” technique during tremors.
🚀 Future Steps for Odisha’s Earthquake Safety
Odisha’s past seismic events indicate that while the risk of a high-magnitude earthquake is relatively low, preparedness remains key. The state government, disaster management agencies, and urban planners must work together to:
- ✔️ Enhance seismic monitoring systems
- ✔️ Ensure strict compliance with earthquake-resistant building codes
- ✔️ Expand public awareness campaigns on earthquake safety
- ✔️ Develop efficient response mechanisms for post-earthquake relief
As Odisha continues to develop rapidly, ensuring earthquake resilience in infrastructure and urban planning will be crucial in safeguarding lives and property.