JK vulnerable to high magnitude earthquakes: Expert

Srinagar, May 31: Kashmir may experience more earthquakes of high magnitude in future, but is not located on the epicenter, according to an international geological expert.

Prof Clifford David Ollier, Professor Emeritus, University of Western Australia, stated this while delivering a lecture on ''How Prone is Kashmir Valley to Earthquakes - Geological Indications'' at a seminar here.

He said the technology has not been successful so far in devising a foolproof method for accurate prediction of earthquakes. The geological survey, seismic mapping and persistent studying of relationship between environment and landforms could help considerably in fathoming the perceptible trends of earth moments such as temblors, Prof Ollier said.

''Our efforts, emphasis and focus should be directed on fundamental scientific research to move ahead. The mapping of occurrences of various geomorphic processes on regular basis in order to decipher spatial and temporal trends could go a long way in forecasting the deadly quakes,'' he added.

Prof Ollier, a geologist of international repute, asserted that every kind of scientific pursuit demands intelligent research guided by living minds. The seismic science was proceeding ahead keeping pace with other scientific disciplines due to which the forecasting of earthquakes would soon become a reality, he added.

Prof Ollier said use of right perception, keen observation, sharp monitoring and immediate action were means to restrict human and physical casualties in the earthquakes.

The warnings, evacuation, proper rescue and rehabilitation also were other factors, which have been used by developed nations to keep the casualties to the minimum, he added.

UNI