Arunachal eruption might have been caused due to lightning

Guwahati, Aug 29 (UNI) Geologists have allayed fears of a possible volcanic eruption near Kimin in Arunachal Pradesh where molten rocks spewed from a hill along with sporadic blasts and fire for two consecutive days starting from August 21.

"The eruption might have been caused by electric sparks generated by lightning," Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG) director PR Arora told UNI over phone from the institute's headquarters at Dehradun.

Experts from the Itanagar unit of WIHG had surveyed the site, located about 7 km from Kimin towards Zero in Papumpare district.

The samples of the 'lava-like' substance have been sent to Dehradun for tests.

"Though nothing can be concluded as yet, it appears that heat generated in the wake of an lightning effect - which might have struck an electric post generating a voltage of over 1000 V might have resulted in the melting of rocks,' Dr Arora said.

He pointed out that such 'atmospheric conditions' have also caused 'eruptions' at places in Uttarkhand recently. "They are localized features and may last for a couple of days," he added.

Significantly, an iron electric post near the place was found burned by the surveyors.

The report of the tests is likely to come in a couple of days.

The Geological Survey of India also collected samples and was conducting tests.

Meanwhile, the Arunachal Government has formed a committee, which comprise members from the WIGH, GSI, and Mining and Geology department, to study the phenomenon and recommend measures, if needed, to tackle any situation arising out of any eventuality.

The committee is likely to hold its first sitting on Friday, a member said.

Geologists have confirmed that there have been no aftershocks since the 'eruption', and the lava have subsided since the third day.

The eruption of gases and hot substances, accompanied by frequent explosions, occurred on the night of August 21, triggering a panic among the people in the area. The temperature of the hills rose to 50 degrees Celcius for over two days.

Seismologists have ruled out the possibility of a volcano as there have been no prior symptoms like earthquakes and release of radioactive gases.

UNI