Why India, Pakistan & Afghanistan Face Frequent Deadly Earthquakes

A 6.0-magnitude earthquake in Afghanistan highlights the region’s seismic vulnerabilities. India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan are located on unstable fault lines. The collision of tectonic plates and the impact of climate change, such as melting glaciers, intensify earthquake risks. Experts advocate for climate-resilient policies and enhanced disaster preparedness to minimize future damage.

Key Points:

  • India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan are highly vulnerable to earthquakes due to their location on active tectonic fault lines.
  • Climate change, particularly melting Himalayan glaciers, exacerbates earthquake risks in the region.
  • Experts emphasize the need for climate-resilient policies and enhanced disaster preparedness to mitigate future earthquake impacts.

Why India, Pakistan & Afghanistan Face Frequent Deadly Earthquakes

A 6.0-magnitude earthquake in Afghanistan has killed at least 812 people and injured over 2,800, once again exposing the region’s deep seismic vulnerabilities. Countries like India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan sit on one of the world’s most unstable fault lines, and experts warn the risks are rising.

Tectonic Collision: The Root Cause

The Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates are colliding, with the Indian plate moving north at around 5 cm per year. This movement creates active fault lines, releasing pressure through frequent quakes.

Recent studies suggest the Indian plate is splitting and peeling into the mantle — a process called delamination — which heightens stress in the crust and triggers stronger quakes.

Hotspots Across the Region

India: From the Bhuj quake (2001) to recent tremors in Assam and Delhi, the seismic threat is constant. Pakistan: Cities like Karachi have recorded moderate quakes in recent years. Afghanistan: The Hindu Kush and Himalayan belt remains among the world’s most active seismic zones.

Climate Change: A Silent Trigger

Beyond tectonics, climate change is amplifying earthquake risks. Melting Himalayan glaciers reduce pressure on the crust, causing the lithosphere to rebound. Meltwater also seeps into the ground, lowering friction between plates and intensifying seismic activity.

Scientists warn the Himalayas could lose up to 80% of their glaciers by 2100, further destabilizing the region.

What Experts Say

While tectonic movements remain the primary driver, climate change is acting as a force multiplier. Experts call for climate-resilient policies, regional cooperation, and stronger disaster preparedness to reduce future risks.