The Ministry of Earth Sciences has withdrawn recently proposed seismic zone guidelines following feedback from state authorities, civil engineers, and public safety experts. The guidelines, which aimed to reclassify earthquake-prone regions in India, faced criticism for potentially impacting construction regulations and real estate development.
Officials clarified that the withdrawal is temporary, allowing time for detailed review and stakeholder consultations. Experts highlighted that abrupt changes in seismic classification could affect urban planning, building codes, and insurance requirements. Several state governments had expressed concern over sudden revisions without adequate preparation.
The Ministry emphasized that public safety remains the top priority and that new guidelines will be formulated in consultation with engineering experts, disaster management authorities, and local governments. In the meantime, existing seismic codes remain in effect to ensure continued safety for construction and infrastructure projects.
Civil engineers and urban planners welcomed the decision, noting that collaborative planning is essential for accurate seismic mapping and resilient urban development. Analysts suggest that India’s growing focus on disaster preparedness requires balanced approaches that integrate scientific data with practical implementation.
