Hyderabad witnesses hydro-seismicity: Can major earthquake strike city?

Hyderabad: Several areas in southwest Hyderabad on Tuesday, October 27, witnessed hydro-seismicity, wherein natural water infiltration triggers earthquakes along pre-existing, critically stressed faults.

Due to the geological event, residents in the area were left frightened as they felt ground vibrations and heard a loud, explosion-like sound.

The incident was reported in Rajendranagar, Upparpally, Attapur, Erraboda, Keshavswamy Nagar and Langar Houz.

Is Hyderabad at risk of a major earthquake?

The geological event has sparked concerns about the safety of high-rise properties in Hyderabad.

Although the city may witness low tremors, a major earthquake is unlikely, as most of the Telangana districts are in a low-risk seismic zone.

India is divided into four seismic zones, Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4, and Zone 5, which indicate the varying risk of earthquakes.

Most of the Telangana districts, including Hyderabad, fall under Zone 2, making the region one of low seismic activity. However, certain eastern areas come under Zone 3, which experiences moderate seismic risks.

What NGRI experts say?

Scientists at the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) in Hyderabad attributed the Tuesday incident to a local geological process known as hydro-seismicity and dismissed reports of a major tectonic earthquake.

Experts explained that Hyderabad lies on a stable crystalline granite formation, making a destructive earthquake highly unlikely.

Hydro-seismicity can occur when rainwater seeps deep underground and enters tiny pores and cracks in granite rocks. As water moves into narrow spaces under pressure, it can create stress within the rock.

The sudden movement of trapped water and compressed air, or small breaks along underground fractures, can release energy and produce vibrations.

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