Assam's Seismic Wake-Up Call: State-Level Earthquake Mock Drills and the Recent Udalguri Tremor
Published December 4, 2025 | Guwahati, Assam
Assam lies in one of the world's most active seismic zones, facing constant reminders of nature's raw power through frequent tremors. The recent 4.3 magnitude earthquake near Silchar on December 2, 2025, rattled the Northeast region. However, the more significant event was the 5.8 magnitude earthquake that hit Udalguri on September 14, 2025, shaking Guwahati and neighboring regions and being felt as far as Bhutan and Bangladesh.
In response, the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has intensified its state-level earthquake mock exercises to promote preparedness and lessen disaster risks. These exercises are crucial in a high-risk Seismic Zone V state like Assam, which remembers the catastrophic 1950 earthquake that altered its history and terrain.
Why Assam's Seismic Zone V Demand Constant Vigilance
Assam is located in India's highest seismic risk zone due to the converging Himalayan tectonic plates and local faults such as the Kopili fault. The September 14, 2025, Udalguri quake was shallow at only 5 km deep, which increased its impact echoing through the region. While no casualties were reported, the quake caused widespread panic with buildings shaking and people rushing outdoors.
Historically, Assam has witnessed some of the largest earthquakes in the subcontinent, including the 1897 (8.7 magnitude) and 1950 (8.5 magnitude) quakes that caused massive destruction and loss of life. In 2025 alone, the region has seen several tremors, ranging from 3.2 magnitude in Nalbari to 3.6 in Dima Hasao, demonstrating ongoing seismic activity in the area.
State-Level Earthquake Mock Exercises: Practice That Saves Lives
The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) leads earthquake preparedness through regular state-level mock drills, involving agencies such as the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). These exercises simulate realistic earthquake scenarios to improve coordination, rescue operations, and medical response readiness.
Typically lasting two days, Day 1 involves table-top discussions of response strategies, while Day 2 focuses on physical drills and field operations simulating rescue and relief efforts. These drills have been conducted across various districts including Chirang, Kamrup Metro, and Tinsukia, fostering a culture of readiness at all levels.
Great Assam School Shakeout Programme 2025
On October 29, 2025, over 700,000 students from nearly 2,000 schools took part in the Great Assam School Shakeout Programme (GASSP). Students practiced the crucial "Drop, Cover, Hold On" technique alongside fire safety drills. This program, timed to commemorate the 1950 earthquake anniversary, spread awareness and ingrained disaster response habits among Assam's youth.
Many districts, including Morigaon, Biswanath, and Tamulpur, participated enthusiastically, supported by awareness campaigns and orientation programs. These youth-focused drills are essential in building a generation better prepared for seismic shocks and emergencies.
The Udalguri Earthquake of 2025: Lessons Learned
The September 14, 2025, earthquake near Udalguri, with its shallow depth and moderate magnitude, served as a stark reminder of Assam's seismic vulnerability. Felt strongly in Guwahati and neighboring states, the quake prompted quick responses to assess any structural damage and refine emergency protocols.
Subsequent aftershocks and additional quakes later in 2025 reinforce the need for continued vigilance and preparedness. ASDMA and related agencies have since incorporated insights from this event into their mock drill scenarios to better simulate such sudden and sharp tremors.
How You Can Prepare: Assam Earthquake Survival Tips
- Drop, Cover, Hold On: During shaking, drop to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until shaking stops. Avoid doorways and windows.
- Family Disaster Plan: Establish meeting points and emergency contacts. Prepare a 72-hour survival kit with essentials like water, food, flashlight, and medicines.
- Home Safety: Secure heavy furniture and retrofit older buildings where possible. ASDMA offers subsidies and guidance for home strengthening.
- Stay Informed: Download seismic alert apps like NCS RiseQ and follow ASDMA social media channels for up-to-date warnings and advice.
- Participate in Drills: Join local school or community earthquake drills to practice response actions and increase confidence.
Why Assam Needs More Earthquake Drills Now
With increasing seismic activity being recorded across Assam in 2025, the value of mock drills is clear. They identify gaps, improve communication, and ultimately save lives. ASDMA plans to scale up these drills to cover more rural areas, industrial sites, and high-risk zones near major rivers to enhance overall preparedness.
By participating and sharing your experiences, you help build a stronger, safer Assam. For ongoing updates, keep visiting Guwahatipedia and stay connected with local disaster management channels.
Stay safe, stay prepared!
