Experts rule out seismic activity at 'smoking' site

Coimbatore, May 28 (UNI) Experts from the Geologival Survey of India (GIS) and the Tamil Nadu Department of Geology and Mining here have ruled out the possiblity of a seismic activity at Neethimund in Niligirs District where the earth developed cracks and smoke emanated.

Speaking to the UNI here today, State Geology and Mining Department Deputy Director G Subramanian said he inspected the site along with GIS geologists from Chennai yesterday.

The Neethi Hamlet, locally called Neethimund, was located about 7.5 kms from Udhagamandalam with an elevation of 2,177 metre above the mean sea level.

It was a 'Reserved Forest' area and formed a part of Nilgiri Massif characterised by Charnockite rock which was more than 2,300 million years old.

The smoke emanating place was noticed at a localised spot covering a width of about 15-20 metre and length of about 100-150 metre.

Hard rock with weathered resideum has been seen on both sides of the stream and there were eucalyptus trees on either side and also along the stream.

Mr Subramanian said examination of the site had not revealed any evidence for any major lineaments, cracks, neo-tectonic activity or earthquake. Enquiry also revealed no tremor was felt by public residing nearby, he said, while ruling out the possibility of any earthquake occurrence.

The smoke may be due to excessive pressure and temperature generated on the thick pile of humus (decayed organic matter) accumulated over the years, he said.

Due to burning humus material below the soil,the eucalyptus trees might have been uprooted.Once the accumulated humus was burnt completely, the fumes may subside, he added.

Mr Subramanian said a good number of curious tourists have been visiting the spot for a closer look at the phenomenon.

UNI