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Assessment of Site-specific Features in and Around Varanasi City, Uttar Pradesh, India, Using Microtremor Measurements

Description: 

We present the spatial distribution map of the seismic vulnerability index (Kg) for Varanasi City and its surroundings in Uttar Pradesh, India. This holy city, located along the Ganga River, has been analysed using the predominant frequency estimated from microtremor data. The seismic vulnerability index is a critical parameter for assessing site response and mitigating the risk of earthquake disasters. It is defined using the Horizontal and Vertical Spectrum Ratio (HVSR) method, also known as Nakamura’s technique. Microtremor measurements were conducted at 77 locations within and around Varanasi city. The predominant frequencies obtained range from 0.34 Hz to 0.94 Hz, site amplification varies between 1.96 and 3.88, and the vulnerability index (Kg) spans 4.82 to 39.61. Furthermore, the synthesis of a 1-D velocity model indicates a low shear wave velocity of approximately 291 m/s down to a depth of 30 meters. The primary goal of this study is to determine the dynamic properties of soil response during a potential earthquake in Varanasi. The results will aid seismic microzonation, identify areas prone to liquefaction, and help mitigate risks associated with near-surface site failures during seismic events in and around Varanasi city.

Session: Recent Advances in Modeling Near-source Ground Motions for Seismic Hazard Applications [Poster]

Type: Poster

Date: 4/16/2025

Presentation Time: 08:00 AM (local time)

Presenting Author: Akhilesh

Student Presenter: Yes

Invited Presentation: 

Poster Number: 59

Authors