Uttarakhand will now sound an earthquake siren on the 9th of every month. The test will take place at 11 am. Notably, Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan has directed the Disaster Management Department to put this in place. Moreover, the move aims to raise public awareness and test the early warning system regularly.
Why Test the Earthquake Siren Every Month?
Regular tests will check that every siren and sensor works properly. Also, any technical fault can be fixed at once. Furthermore, people will learn the sound of the real warning siren. As a result, they can react quickly during an actual earthquake. Importantly, the aim is not to scare people but to keep them alert and ready.
Uttarakhand’s Earthquake Early Warning System
Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman shared key details:
- Sensors installed: 169
- Sirens installed: 112
- Partner: IIT Roorkee, with USDMA
- Mobile app: Bhudev, which sends alerts to phones
Also, a proposal to install more sensors is under way. Similarly, the Chief Secretary asked for new sirens wherever needed.
The System Worked on 6 October
On the night of 6 October 2026, an earthquake of magnitude 4.9 hit Uttarakhand. Its epicentre lay near Tharali in Chamoli district, at a depth of about 13 km. Notably, the early warning system sent alerts before the shaking reached people. In fact, alerts reached people through the Bhudev app and sirens. Thus, the event proved the value of the system.
How a Few Seconds Help
Even a few seconds of warning can save lives. For example, people can move to safe spots. Also, they can switch off gas and electrical appliances. Therefore, early warning is a key part of disaster preparedness.
Why Uttarakhand Is at Risk
Uttarakhand lies in a highly active seismic belt. In fact, large parts of the state fall in Seismic Zones IV and V. Hence, awareness and preparedness are vital.
Appeal to the Public
The Secretary urged people to install and update the Bhudev app. Also, he asked them to allow location access at all times. Then, alerts for their area can reach their phones on time.
Why the Earthquake Siren Test Matters for UKPSC
Notably, disaster management is a core UKPSC topic. So, remember the date and time of the test, the sensor and siren numbers and the Bhudev app. Also, revise the 6 October earthquake. Next, for a related story, read about the first glacial lake early warning system at Vasudhara Tal. For official updates, also visit USDMA. 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.