structures and infrastructure are not built to resist seismic activity are the causes of this "high
exposure."
The eastern suburbs of Mumbai, according to a previous research by the Indian Institute of Technology
(IIT) Bombay, are highly earthquake-prone. According to the survey, the areas with the highest
earthquake risk include Shivaji Nagar, Govandi, Ghatkopar, Bhandup, Powai, Vikhroli, Vidyavihar, and
Mulund.
These regions are more vulnerable to seismic activity due to a combination of variables. For instance,
despite the high population density in places like Shivaji Nagar, Govandi, and Ghatkopar, many of the
structures there were not designed to resist earthquakes. Additionally, the soft soil of Powai, Vikhroli,
Vidyavihar, and Mulund enhances the ground motion during earthquakes, making the buildings more
susceptible.
Numerous geologists have forecasted difficulties for the city in the future. Records from V
Subramanyam, a former professor at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), show that since 2008, the
eastern bank of Thane Creek has experienced earthquakes with a Richter scale value of about 4. An
earthquake with a Richter scale magnitude of 6.2 to 6.5 is anticipated to happen soon. Residents and
civic leaders should be ready for such a situation. They should also take the required safety steps to
reduce harm and fatalities.
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India's Seismic Zoning Map and the Risk Level for Mumbai
During 25 earthquakes of magnitude 4 or higher have been reported in Mumbai over the course of the
previous 400 years, giving the city a lengthy history of suffering earthquakes. Even though there were
only 200,000 people living in the city at the time, one of the most destructive earthquakes happened
back in 1618, killing an estimated 20,000 people. This emphasises the risk of disastrous results when
seismic activity takes place in densely populated regions.
The nation of India has been divided into four seismic zones, designated as zones 2, 3, 4, and 5. This aids
in comprehending a region's seismicity. The maximum degree of seismicity is related with zone 5,
whereas the lowest level is associated with zone 2. Mumbai is located in zone 3, which is a region of
moderate danger. However, the study found that the city is vulnerable to high exposure because of its
dense population.
How Safe is Mumbai?
The skyline of Mumbai is increasingly dominated by big skyscrapers and high-rise constructions. A
serious worry is the increase in tall buildings in metropolitan areas. In the case of a significant
earthquake, it might experience immense destruction. Authorities must take action to reduce the
possible dangers in light of this worry. In the case of a seismic event, the protection of people's lives and
property comes first.