The National Centre for Seismology informed that an earthquake measuring 5.4 on the Richter scale was recorded from India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Several parts of the Island felt tremors of the earthquake, but no loss of property or life was reported. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are located in the Bay of Bengal in the Indian Ocean, and are a Union territory of India.
The earthquake occurred at 12:06 pm on Sunday, and the seismology centre also confirmed that its depth was 90 km. The chief secretary of the Union territory, Dr Chandra Bhushan Kumar, said that the quake occurred at 12:08 pm and measured 5.7. He further stated that tremors were felt across Rangat, Mayabunder, and other surrounding areas in the Middle and North Andaman. He ensured that measures have been put in place and all the respective agencies have been informed.
Kumar also stated that the fishermen and tourists have been advised not to go near the seas. As per the District Emergency Operations Centre in Port Blair, the quake’s epicentre was 96km north of Barren Island, located in the sea. Barren Island is also the only active volcano in India and is situated at a distance of 140km from Port Blair by sea.
The belt consisting of the Alpine-Himalayas region, which extends up to Andaman and Nicobar, is one of the most active belts in the world. Earthquakes are often recorded in the region, making it highly susceptible. The authorities have, however, made sure that the least damage to the locals and their properties is done.
