Probabilistic Seismic Hazards Maps for District of Pathankot (Punjab)

Abstract

Probabilistic seismic hazard analysis (PSHA) has been carried out for the district of Pathankot. The earthquake data has been collected from different seismological agencies, e.g. NDMA, IMD, ISC-UK and USGS, and a comprehensive earthquake catalogue has been developed. Several ground motion prediction equations have been reviewed to select a GMPE appropriate for carrying out PSHA. Earthquake hazard parameters have been estimated in terms of peak ground acceleration and spectral acceleration. The seismic hazard maps of the district have been prepared at various return periods at different probabilities of exceedance. The results show that the district can experience strong ground motions originating from earthquakes originating in north-west Himalayas. Therefore, structures must be designed using the hazard parameters determined considering the local tectonic setup of the region. The developed hazard maps would help engineers and architects involved in planning and design of earthquake-resistant structures and retrofitting works.