The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has placed the whole of Uttarakhand in the new seismic Zone VI. This zone marks the highest earthquake hazard in the revised national map. Notably, the map forms part of the updated earthquake design code, IS 1893. Earlier, Uttarakhand lay split between Zone IV and Zone V. So, every district must now follow the strictest building norms.
What the New Seismic Map Shows
BIS released the updated National Seismic Hazard Map in late November 2025. It places the entire Himalayan arc, from Jammu and Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh, in Zone VI. Moreover, about 61% of India’s landmass now falls in moderate to high hazard zones. Also, the map uses probabilistic seismic hazard modelling instead of older deterministic methods. Further, any town on a zone boundary moves to the higher zone.
What Changes for Uttarakhand
Earlier building bylaws gave some relief to Zone IV areas. Now, that relief ends for the whole state. Hence, new structures across the state must resist stronger shaking. Roads, bridges, government offices and schools will need tougher designs. As a result, construction costs may rise across the hills and plains.
Why the Himalaya Faces High Risk
The Indian Plate keeps pushing north into the Eurasian Plate. Therefore, stress builds up along Himalayan faults. Also, the 1991 Uttarkashi and 1999 Chamoli earthquakes struck the state. So, experts treat the region as one of India’s most quake-prone belts.
About BIS and Seismic Codes
BIS is India’s national standards body under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. It works under the BIS Act, 2016. Besides IS 1893, codes such as IS 4326 and the National Building Code govern seismic safety. Earlier, the map had four zones, from Zone II to Zone V.
Seismic Zone VI: Key Facts for Revision
- Issued by: Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
- Code: IS 1893 (Part 1), earthquake-resistant design
- New zone: Zone VI, the highest hazard class
- Coverage: Entire Himalayan arc, including all of Uttarakhand
- India’s area at risk: About 61% in moderate to high zones
- Method: Probabilistic seismic hazard assessment
Why Seismic Zone VI Matters for UKPSC
Notably, disaster management is a core theme in UKPSC papers. So, remember the new zone, the BIS role and the 61% figure. Also, link Zone VI with the state’s earthquake early warning efforts. For official updates, also visit the Bureau of Indian Standards. Next, read about the monthly earthquake siren test and the state’s disaster alert system. You can also download our free Uttarakhand Current Affairs magazine.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.