Ethiopian Geological Institute Denies Earthquake Risks Near GERD

The Ethiopian Geological Institute has refuted claims from media reports, including Egypt Independent, that suggested potential earthquake risks near the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). The institute stated there is no geological basis for such fears, emphasizing that the GERD’s location was determined safe after thorough studies. Recent earthquakes in Ethiopia do not pose a threat to the dam’s integrity.

On October 8, 2024, the Ethiopian Geological Institute issued a statement refuting claims made by media outlets, including Egypt Independent, regarding the possibility of an earthquake near the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). The Institute clarified that there is no geological basis for such claims, emphasizing that seismic activities observed in Ethiopia, particularly within the Rift Valley, do not pose a risk to the GERD, which is situated several kilometers away from these areas. The Director General of the Ethiopian Geological Institute, Ijara Tesfaye, indicated that while Ethiopia has experienced earthquakes in its history, it has not endured significant damage from these events. He further noted that a minor earthquake measuring 4.9 on the Richter scale occurred near Fental, approximately 150 kilometers from Addis Ababa, but this should not instill concern regarding seismic threats to the dam. A thorough geological study conducted prior to the construction of GERD confirmed its location as safe from potential earthquakes. The Director General stated, “The information being circulated about earthquake risk is incorrect.” This statement aims to dissipate fears stemming from inaccuracies presented in various reports about the dam’s stability.

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has been a focal point of regional tension in East Africa, particularly involving Egypt and Sudan over water rights. Earthquake concerns often arise in discussions about infrastructure stability in seismic regions such as the Rift Valley, where Ethiopia is geographically situated. The Ethiopian Geological Institute plays a crucial role in studying geological risks associated with prominent projects like GERD. Understanding the geological landscape is vital for the safety assessments of such large-scale constructions, allowing for informed decisions about potential risks and ongoing monitoring.

In summary, the Ethiopian Geological Institute has firmly decried the sensational claims made by various media outlets about the earthquake risks near the GERD, labeling them as unfounded. The dam, having undergone rigorous geological assessments, is not situated in a seismically vulnerable area, and previous earthquakes in Ethiopia have not caused significant damage. The clarification from the Institute serves to reinforce the dam’s stability and the importance of relying on accurate scientific evaluations.

Original Source: www.ena.et