As tremors continue to rattle parts of Pakistan periodically, seismic experts warn that several major cities are sitting precariously close to disaster. According to data from the National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC), Pakistan is divided into three distinct seismic risk zones, each with its own set of challenges and vulnerabilities.
Fault Lines Beneath Major Cities
At the highest level of risk are more than a dozen urban centers built directly on or near active fault lines. These include densely populated and strategically important cities like Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, and Abbottabad.
Seismologists say these areas are particularly exposed to powerful earthquakes due to their direct proximity to geological fault systems. “These are not theoretical risks,” a geophysics expert told Samaa TV. “These zones have experienced significant seismic events in the past and remain highly active.”
The government has made some progress in seismic monitoring, but experts stress that understanding fault lines is only part of the equation—preparedness and infrastructure resilience are just as critical.
Coastal Cities Face Tsunami Threats
In addition to earthquake-prone inland areas, Pakistan’s coastline adds another layer of risk. Cities like Karachi, Gwadar, and Ormara lie in regions that could be affected by undersea earthquakes in the Arabian Sea, which have the potential to trigger tsunamis.
While less frequent, tsunami events could be devastating due to poor early warning systems and limited public awareness. Coastal urban expansion, particularly in Karachi, has increased exposure to such threats in recent years.
Areas That Shake, But Aren’t Near Fault Lines
A third category identified by the NSMC includes areas that regularly experience minor tremors but are geographically farther from the country’s major fault lines. Central Punjab, including cities like Lahore and Faisalabad, falls into this group.
Though considered lower risk, these areas are not entirely safe. Past incidents have shown that even distant seismic activity can cause structural damage if buildings are not earthquake-resistant.
Experts Urge Action, Not Complacency
Despite the clear risk mapping, Pakistan’s disaster preparedness remains patchy. Building codes are inconsistently enforced, emergency drills are rare, and public awareness campaigns are minimal.
Samaa News spoke to Islamabad correspondent Umar Asif, who noted that while the NSMC continues to expand monitoring capabilities, long-term resilience depends heavily on how seriously local governments take the threat. “We’re seeing progress in seismic data collection,” he said, “but much more needs to be done on the ground—literally.”
