Geophysics-old

Vision

To aim at seismic monitoring, earthquake precursory research, seismic microzonation, investigation of geodynamical deformation and Crustal/Lithospheric structures of the Himalaya and surrounding regions by quantitative physical methods, especially seismic, Global Positioning System (GPS) and electromagnetic.

 Geophysics in Himalayan Context

As a part of outreach program of our Institute, the Geophysics Division has launched new initiatives of research pursuits entirely subordinated to the national priorities with direct bearing on the society. It is well known that the frontal Himalaya has been the site of several devastating earthquakes. Considering that in case of preparation period for a future large earthquake, certain precursory activities can be expected. Therefore, search for precursory signals through multiple geophysical observations have been initiated in the Central Himalaya. The first ever Indian Multi-Parametric Geophysical Observatory (MPGO) for earthquake precursory studies through integrated geophysical approach was established by WIHG at Ghuttu, Gahwal Himalaya in the year of 2007.

The understanding of earthquake source processes and the medium characterization are the tools for the assessment, mitigation and reduction of seismic hazard. To achieve these objectives the Geophysics Division has been operating a regional seismic network in NW Himalaya since 1985. Presently, this seismic network has 30 broadband (BBS) and 8 short period seismic stations. 12 BBS stations of this network are connected through VSAT to monitor regional seismicity in real time mode at central station Dehradun.

The Geophysics Group has carried out first ever passive seismological experiment around the Eastern Himalayan Syntaxis. A linear profile of 12 broadband seismic stations has been installed in Lohit Valley, Eastern Hiamalayan Syntaxis for studying the lithospheric structure and dynamics of the syntaxis.

Besides these, Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW) and site response studies in major populated centers/cities of northern India have been carried out which are prime input to the microzonation studies.

The Himalayan School Earthquake Laboratory Programme (HIMSELP) is one of the important components of the Mission Mode Project of Department of Science & Technology (DST), Govt. of India. The objective of this programme is to provide a platform for interactive learning through scientific understanding of earthquakes for school children and teachers. Under this programme a website (www.himselp.net.in) has been developed for the benefit of students who can have complete coverage of earthquake process.

The main research activity of the division is entirely subordinated to the national priorities through:

Real time monitoring of Himalayan seismicity
Earthquake precursory research through MPGO
Earthquake Hazard mitigation and protection of population from unfavorable natural phenomenon and disasters
Seismic microzonation
Earthquake awareness programme for school children