GSI preparing isoseismal map of quake-hit areas of country

New Delhi, Dec 18 (UNI) The Geological Survey of India (GSI) is undertaking seismic surveys after major earthquakes in the country with the aim of preparing the isoseismal map in the quake-hit areas for studying the damage to structures and buildings and also terrain changes.

Informing the Rajya Sabha, Minister of state for Mines T Subbarami Reddy said, in a written reply, that "such studies were also done after the Gujarat earthquake in January 2001.

Results of these studies would be useful in developing future mitigation strategies." He stated the details of these studies undertaken by GSI on the Gujarat earthquake had been published in the organisation's special publication, released in 2003.

Dr Reddy, however, clarified that no separate funds were provided to the organisation for these studies. "GSI undertook earthquake related studies out of funds allocated for special investigations." He told the members that GSI had taken up collaborative research pertaining to quakes with researchers from the University of Japan, Geological Survey of Japan and IIT, Kanpur.

UNI SD PA RS1556