Identify the correct statements from the following:

(a) The northern western Himalayan states are more vulnerable to earthquakes and landslides.
(b) There is a high possibility of occurrence of volcanoes in Himalayan mountains.
(c) The prediction of earthquakes is possible nowadays.
(d) Anthropogenic activities are accelerating geomorphic hazards in Himalayan states.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is D

​(a) The northern western Himalayan states are more vulnerable to earthquakes and landslides.
Correct – The Himalayan region lies in a high seismic zone due to active tectonic movements along the Indian and Eurasian plate boundary. The region also experiences frequent landslides due to its steep slopes, fragile geology, and heavy rainfall.

(d) Anthropogenic activities are accelerating geomorphic hazards in Himalayan states.
Correct – Deforestation, road construction, mining, tourism, and unplanned urbanization in the Himalayas are increasing the risk of landslides, soil erosion, and flash floods.

Information Booster:

• The Himalayas fall under Seismic Zone IV and V, making them highly prone to earthquakes.
• Landslides in the region occur due to both natural and human-induced activities.
• Volcanoes are typically found in subduction zones (e.g., the Pacific Ring of Fire), not in the Himalayan collision zone.
• Scientists can identify seismic hazard zones but cannot predict earthquakes accurately.
• Deforestation and construction activities weaken slopes, increasing the risk of landslides and flash floods.

Additional Knowledge:

1. (b) There is a high possibility of occurrence of volcanoes in the Himalayan mountains.
   Incorrect – The Himalayas are not a volcanic mountain range. They are formed due to continental-continental collision rather than subduction, which is usually associated with volcanic activity. There are no active volcanoes in the Himalayas.

2. (c) The prediction of earthquakes is possible nowadays.
   Incorrect – While some progress has been made in seismic early warning systems, earthquake prediction with precise timing, location, and magnitude remains scientifically impossible. Scientists can identify high-risk zones, but they cannot predict exact earthquakes.

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