Prelimary Report on the Main Shock of the Bhuj Event, January 26, 2001, from the Geological Survey of India

[from 'gsi.gov.in/quake.htm'] A devastating earthquake struck the Bhuj area of the Gujarat State of India in the morning of January 26, 2001 while the entire country was celebrating the 51st anniversary of the Republic Day of India. Loss of human life in thousands and extensive damage to property have been reported. GSI's broad band Seismic Observatory at Jabalpur recorded the main shock of the devastating earthquake on 26.1.2001 at 08.46 hours.

A number of the aftershocks are continuously being recorded and analysed. Extensive macro seismic surveys are initiated under the leadership of Shri Pravash Pandey, Director of Earthquake Study Unit who, along with nine others, have reached the affected area. Thirty seven officers including 27 Geologists and 10 Geophysicists have been mobilised for carrying out investigations.