An engineering model for seismicity of India

This article explores an engineering approach to model the seismic activity in India. Finite element analysis is carried out to estimate the stresses and displacements in the Indian plate. Assuming the Himalayan boundary as fixed, the plate-driving forces are modelled as axial forces applied at the mid-oceanic ridge between the Indian and African plates. The effect of Aravali, Dharwar and Bundelkhand cratons on the stress patterns in the plate is also studied. The obtained results are validated to the extent possible with the available recorded seismicity data and measurements from Global Positioning System (GPS).