Ethiopian Geological Institute Dismisses Baseless Earthquake Claims Surrounding GERD

The Ethiopian Geological Institute has refuted media claims about an earthquake risk at the GERD, stating there is no geological evidence supporting such worries. The recent earthquake in Fental, classified as minor, is not relevant to the dam’s safety, and the GERD was constructed following thorough geological surveys confirming its stability.

Addis Ababa, October 8/2024 (ENA) – The Ethiopian Geological Institute has firmly refuted claims made by certain media outlets, including ‘Egypt Independent’, suggesting an imminent risk of earthquakes in the vicinity of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). This assertion is deemed completely unfounded according to the Institute’s findings. The Ethiopian Geological Institute clarified that there is no geological evidence indicating a likelihood of earthquakes near the GERD. While it is true that regions traversed by rift valleys are generally susceptible to seismic activity, the specific area around the GERD is not at risk. Ijara Tesfaye, the Director General of the Ethiopian Geological Institute stated that a recent earthquake registered at 4.9 on the Richter scale occurred in Fental, approximately 150 kilometers from Addis Ababa, and is classified as minor. In light of this event, ‘Egypt Independent’ and similar outlets have disseminated erroneous narratives suggesting that the GERD could be endangered by seismic activity. The Director General emphasized that there is no scientific study indicating that earthquakes in the Rift Valley could trigger seismic events in other regions. Notably, the GERD is situated several kilometers away from the Rift Valley. During the dam’s construction, comprehensive geological surveys were conducted to evaluate potential earthquake risks and other geological events, confirming that the GERD has been constructed in a secure location. Historically, Ethiopia has experienced various earthquakes, particularly within the Rift Valley, yet none have occurred in close proximity to the GERD. The Director General reiterated that dismissing the information regarding earthquake risks around the GERD is essential, as it stems from inaccurate reporting by select media sources, particularly “Egypt Independent”.

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a significant infrastructural project for Ethiopia, has often been at the center of discussions regarding its potential environmental and geological impacts. Located near the Rift Valley, a region known for seismic activity, there has been ongoing scrutiny and concern related to earthquake risks. The Ethiopian Geological Institute plays a crucial role in assessing geological risks associated with large projects like the GERD, ensuring that thorough studies are conducted to gauge safety and stability considering Ethiopia’s geological history.

In summary, the Ethiopian Geological Institute has categorically dismissed claims of an earthquake risk at the GERD as unfounded and misleading. Their comprehensive studies reveal that the dam is located in a secure area not at risk of seismic activity, and thus, the recent misreporting by the press does not reflect the actual geological assessments conducted. Ensuring accurate information regarding such vital projects is critical for all stakeholders involved.

Original Source: www.ena.et