Measuring earthquakes

India Meteorological Department (IMD) already has a system in place to monitor earthquakes within the country and outside for all significant earthquakes, which affect India. The system consists of different types of observatories spread all over the country. Data from 40 stations are electronically collected and transmitted to central processing unit at New Delhi for accurate determination of location of the epicenter, time of occurrence and magnitude (size) of the earthquake. The intensity determination over wider affected area around epicenter is done through post earthquake survey. However, in the aftermath of the great Sumatra Earthquake of 26th December, 2004, a most modern real time seismic monitoring network is envisaged, which shall have real time availability of data and automatic determination of location, time of occurrence and magnitude of the earthquake with 17 stations. The proposed seismic monitoring network is in the process of procurement as a part of Early Warning System for Tsunami and Storm Surges.

The system is expected to be operational by the middle of 2007.

This information was given by the Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Shri Kapil Sibal in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha today.

Source : Press Information Bureau
Date : August 18, 2006