The Hindu: Published on 8th Jan 2025:
Why in News?
An earthquake of magnitude 7.1 struck the Tibetan region of China near the Nepal border on January 7, 2024. The quake has significant implications due to its location, associated damages, and the potential impact on ongoing projects like the world’s largest hydroelectric-power dam. The disaster raises concerns about the seismic vulnerability of the region and its geopolitical consequences.
The Story So Far:
The earthquake struck at 6:35 am IST with an epicenter 10 km below the surface, approximately 80 km north of Mt. Everest. Casualties reported so far include 95 deaths, 130 injuries, and extensive property damage in Tingry county, Tibet. Tremors were felt across Kathmandu, Thimphu, and Kolkata. The region has spiritual, environmental, and tourism significance, which magnifies the event’s impact.
Where Did the Quake Occur?:
The epicenter was located in Tingry county, part of the Shigatse region in Tibet, sitting at an average elevation of 4-5 km above sea level.
Geographical Context: Tingry is a gateway to Mt. Everest, and the region has a sparse population but holds cultural and spiritual importance as the residence of the Panchen Lama.
Tourism: Winter saw fewer tourists, but the region’s closure after the quake highlights its economic reliance on tourism.
Environmental Fragility: The high-altitude location increases vulnerability to secondary disasters like landslides and glacier destabilization.
Does the Quake’s Location Matter?
The location is crucial due to:
Proximity to the Lhasa Terrane:
The quake occurred within a tectonically active terrane where the Indian and Eurasian plates collide.
The Lhasa terrane hosts China’s upcoming hydroelectric-power dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo River, raising environmental and geopolitical concerns, especially for downstream regions in India and Bangladesh.
The dam’s construction in a seismically active zone risks exacerbating damage from future quakes.
Himalayan Region’s Role:
Known as the 'third pole,' this area regulates water flows to millions through its rivers, glaciers, and lakes. Earthquakes in this zone can alter river courses, destabilize glaciers, and lead to floods.
Seismic History:
The Himalayan region is one of the most seismically active zones globally due to the ongoing collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates. This event underscores the need for robust disaster preparedness.
What Caused the Quake?
Plate Tectonics:
The Indian plate continues to push northward at 60 mm/year, colliding with the Eurasian plate.
This collision creates tension that periodically releases as earthquakes.
Historical Context:
The Lhasa terrane has recorded over 21 significant earthquakes since 1950, including a 6.9 magnitude quake in Mainling in 2017.
Geologists study the region to predict future quakes by analyzing accumulated tension and past release patterns.
Conclusion:
The earthquake near the Lhasa terrane highlights the complex interplay of tectonic activity, environmental fragility, and human infrastructure. Its location near China’s hydroelectric project raises questions about prioritizing energy needs over seismic safety. This disaster underscores the importance of integrating geoscience into development planning, especially in tectonically active zones, to mitigate risks and safeguard millions dependent on the region's resources.
