Scientists and geologists have warned that the Western and Eastern Ghats, which are fragile and already experiencing frequent earthquakes, landslides, and flooding, could face a catastrophe similar to the one currently occurring in Joshimath, Uttarakhand if development activities are not halted. They are calling on the government to conduct geo-scientific mapping of the regions and to immediately stop the blasting of rocks for road construction, resorts, and other development projects.

A senior geologist from the Indian Institute of Science stated that the government was previously warned about the sensitivity of the regions when announcing river diversion and hydel projects, but went ahead without conducting any necessary assessments. In Joshimath, work to clear the area has been expedited due to the presence of an army base.

According to noted geologist Sreedhar Ramamurthi, who has studied both the Himalayan Range and the Western Ghats, development in only 20% of the area in Joshimath is sufficient for settlement. He states that the landslides that occurred in that area happened due to the development on old debris, and similar issues may occur in the Western and Eastern Ghats if proper precautions are not taken. Urbanization and other activities have already caused small pockets of damage in the Western Ghats, and the government’s response has been reactive rather than proactive. However, it is essential to note that there is currently no comprehensive geological or geoscientific mapping of the area.

Ramamurthi, citing the example of Kerala, warns that flooding can occur when springs are obstructed, and similar issues such as cracks are also developing in other parts of the Western Ghats. He also points out that while there are minor earthquakes every year in the Himalayan region and microearthquakes every day, similar activity may be happening in the Western and Eastern Ghats but is not being properly assessed.

Scientists reported earthquakes in the Deccan plateau and Ghats last year, and caution that this is a sign that should not be ignored, especially as areas are being opened up for settlements. Prof. Soumitro Banerjee, from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) in Kolkata, and General Secretary of the Breakthrough Science Society, also warns that the Western Ghats has a natural geology, but that there is a need for detailed scientific assessment of the regions before it is too late. He urges that now is the time to start this assessment before similar issues seen in Joshimath occur in these regions.