02/05/2026
Srinagar at High Earthquake Risk, Experts Warn
Srinagar β While the Kashmir Valley often appears calm, experts are raising serious concerns about an underlying seismic threat that could have devastating consequences.
Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor of Islamic University of Science and Technology, has warned that nearly 99% of homes in Srinagar are not earthquake-resistant, making the city extremely vulnerable to a major earthquake.
He highlighted that Kashmirβs fragile Himalayan terrain has a long history of powerful seismic activity. However, rapid urban expansion in recent years has largely ignored essential safety standards. In Srinagar alone, there are approximately 2.5 lakh houses, most lacking the structural strength needed to withstand strong tremors.
Romshoo stressed that this risk is largely preventable. He noted that making buildings earthquake-resistant would only increase construction costs by around 10%, yet safety norms continue to be overlooked.
Referring to past disasters, he cited the 1550 Kashmir earthquake and the 2005 Kashmir earthquake, which claimed around 82,000 lives. He warned that the region is capable of experiencing earthquakes of magnitude 8 or higher.
Despite the looming threat, preparedness levels remain low. He urged authorities and the public to focus on awareness, safety protocols, evacuation planning, and protection of vulnerable populations.
Highlighting the unpredictable nature of earthquakes, Romshoo cautioned that even a magnitude 7 tremor could cause widespread destruction in the current scenario.
Calling the situation urgent, he emphasized that the real question is not whether an earthquake will occurβbut whether people are prepared when it strikes.
